Master Gardener Training

Master Gardeners are a vital resource to the Gloucester County Extension Horticultural Program. These volunteers teach classes, answer horticultural inquiries, present programs, and diagnose plant diseases. Master Gardeners extend the resources of the land-grant university through their volunteer efforts. Participants in the program must attend all classes and will receive a minimum of 60 hours of horticultural information. 

2023 Master Gardener Basic Training

This year’s Master Gardener Training class is a 12-week virtual course starting August 16th – November 8th. Canvas course class assignments will be completed on your schedule before the required Wednesday evening classes via Zoom from 7:00pm-8:30pm. There will be optional in-person hands-on field trips. 

2023 Master Gardener Training Schedule

This is still in the planning stage and not available at this time. Please check back again soon. 

Field Trips, Plants, Daffodil Festival

Service Hours

Upon graduation the participant will return 50 hours of service to their local Virginia Cooperative Extension by participating in various Master Gardener services to the community such as answering horticulture questions at the help desk, conducting educational programs, leading a team, or providing support to other Master Gardeners in many other areas. To maintain Master Gardener Status after the first year, each volunteer must complete 20 hours of service to the community and 8 hours of continuing education.

Fees

Cost is $160. The application process is open from April 28 - July 7. Course fee includes a digital version of the training manual and a non-refundable background check fee of $12.50. To receive a hard copy of the manual, there is an additional fee of $49.50 to be paid during registration.

 Space is limited, so sign up early.

Additional Information

For more information about becoming a Master Gardener volunteer, call the Gloucester Extension Office at 804-693-2602 or contact: