Do you have an interest in gardening, a willingness to learn more about horticulture, and a strong desire to volunteer? Join us and become a Penn State Extension Master Gardener!
Penn State Extension Montour County is now accepting applications for our renowned Master Gardener Basic Training program -- a volunteer training course designed to provide experienced home gardeners with the information and skills necessary to share their experience and knowledge with others. This program offers over 40 hours of expert educational training covering
- Basic Botany
- Plant Propagation
- Soil Science
- Integrated Pest Management
- Pruning Techniques
- Native Plants
- Weed Management, and more!
Program Details:
- What we do: Our Master Gardener volunteer program supports the outreach mission of Penn State Extension by educating the public on best practices in sustainable horticulture and environmental stewardship.
- Class Schedule and Format: Hybrid format includes both online and in-person instruction. Weekly Zoom classes begin on Thursday evenings in early October and run through March of the following year. In-person, hands-on training is offered once a month to supplement and reinforce the online experience.
- Tech Specs: All you need is a stable internet connection and a computer, tablet, or smartphone. 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.
- Volunteer Commitment: After completing 40 hours of classes, candidates must agree to volunteer 50 hours in the first year to achieve full Master Gardener status. Certification is maintained by completing 10 hours of continuing education plus 20 volunteer hours per year thereafter.
- Fee: $250, due upon acceptance, covers the cost of the award-winning Master Gardener Manual and other training materials.
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 follow this link to express interest in our Master Gardener Basic Training Program.
We look forward to working with you!