Become a Master Gardener

Master Gardener Entomology Class in San Joaquin County

The UC Master Gardener program is open to individuals with or without gardening experience who wish to increase their knowledge and horticultural skills. They must also have a desire to serve their community via our volunteer programs. These programs are the cornerstone of the Master Gardener concept and provide important outreach to the community from the University of California's division of Agriculture & Natural Resources. These outreach programs vary by county, some examples include plant and disease/pest hotlines, workshops, presentations, community gardens and much more. We are seeking people who desire to make a long-term commitment to the program.

Master Gardener Training Course

After submitting an application and being accepted into the program. Each UC Master Gardener will then receive over 50 hours of training from University of California specialists, advisers and other professionals in the nursery and landscape industries. The training classes span an average of sixteen weeks. Class topics include botany, composting, integrated pest management (IPM), soils, water management, entomology, plant pathology, fruit and ornamental tree culture and sustainable landscape practices.

Example of Master Gardener books

After completing the training course, UC Master Gardeners are required to volunteer a minimum of 50 hours in the first year and 25 volunteer hours each year thereafter. There is also a minimum of annual required continuing education time. A fee, depending on the county program, is also required with your application, in exchange you will receive educational materials, such as those pictured to the left to further enrich your training experience.

UC Master Gardener Application

The training times and location vary by county. It is recommended to train in the county where you live. Some counties combine their master gardener training with surrounding counties and then rotate the location of classes. Other counties will have their training classes on a yearly basis, while others will offer classes every other year. Most counties however will have their sixteen weeks of master gardener training courses from January to April/May. Prior to submitting a master gardener application, please check with your county master gardener program in regards to training times and location.

Find your local Master Gardener Program