Posted: April 3, 2023
50 years ago the Master Gardener program began at Washington State University. What began with 300 volunteers in Washington state has grown to over 84,000 volunteers showing up in communities across the country!
Photo of many Master Gardeners
The Extension Master Gardener program is deeply rooted in serving locally. The Co-Founder and Washington State University (WSU) Urban Horticulturalist, David Gibby, believed in the power of volunteers. Once established at WSU, Co-Founder and Ornamental Horticulturist, Bernie Wesenberg, hit the road to share this program nationally, and it stuck. The program has a presence in all 50 states and three countries. Regardless of the state, you'll find Master Gardeners at farmers markets, school gardens and classrooms, community gardens, leading wildflower hikes, educational gardens, contributing fresh produce to food pantries, and staffing email/phone/helpdesks ready to tackle your tough gardening questions!
