Do you have an interest in gardening, a willingness to learn more about horticulture, and a strong desire to teach others? Join us and start your path to becoming a Master Gardener. Classes begin in October!
Master Gardeners Teach!
Penn State Extension in Centre County is now accepting applications for the 2023-2024 Penn State Master Gardener program. This program consists of a volunteer training course designed to provide experienced home gardeners with information and skills necessary to share their experience and knowledge with others.
The mission of the Penn State Master Gardener volunteer program is to support Penn State Extension by utilizing research-based information to educate the public on best practices in consumer horticulture and environmental stewardship.
Training for new Master Gardeners in Centre County will be held October 5, 2023, through March 22, 2024. Training covers basic botany, soil science, plant propagation, integrated pest management, pruning, and more.
The training format will consist of a hybrid of online class sessions and in-person activities. Online training will require a stable internet with a good connection. Participants should be comfortable with using the Zoom platform for online training and have a camera on the device you are using. Instructions will be given if you are not familiar with Zoom.
After completing 40 hours of instructional classes, candidates must agree to volunteer 50 hours to the Penn State Extension Master Gardener Program during the first year*. In subsequent years, 20 hours of volunteer time and 10 hours of continuing education are required to maintain the Master Gardener certification. Volunteer activities currently carried out by the Centre County Master Gardeners include: answering garden related questions for the garden hotline, leading horticulture presentations or talks for the community, working with youth or senior populations to offer horticulture outreach, and more. *Per Penn State safety guidelines.
There is a program fee of $200 to cover the cost of training materials and expenses. You will be notified about instructions for payment.
Think you might be a great fit for the Master Gardener Program in Centre County? Watch this short video to discover key differences between our program and other agricultural clubs, classes, and programs.
If you have a strong interest in gardening, are a life-long learner, want to help others, and love building community by sharing your gardening enthusiasm and knowledge, then please click on the following link to complete our Master Gardener Program Application.
For further information, please contact Molly Sturniolo, Master Gardener Coordinator, at mas79@psu.edu with questions.
We look forward to working with you!
