Posted: June 5, 2025

The Penn State Extension Master Gardener Program of Philadelphia County has opened the application process for its 2025 Training Class.

Master Gardeners earn hours by doing outreach on sustainable horticulture at a community event.

Master Gardeners earn hours by doing outreach on sustainable horticulture at a community event.

Are you a passionate gardener who wants to share your love of gardening with others in your community? The Penn State Extension Master Gardener Program may be for you.

The Penn State Extension Master Gardener Program of Philadelphia County has opened the application process for its 2025 Training Class. The training class consists of weekly virtual lectures from October to March on a range of topics related to urban horticulture, as well as monthly in-person classes throughout the year. Training prepares students to become Master Gardener volunteers, who educate the public and our communities on research-based best practices in sustainable horticulture and environmental stewardship.

Minimum requirements to apply:

  • 18+ years old
  • Philadelphia resident
  • Willing to commit to volunteering as a Master Gardener following training (50 hours the first year following training; 20 hours each subsequent year)

No prior experience is required, as all volunteers go through 40-60 hours of Basic Training in horticultural science.

All interested applicants must attend one virtual information session before receiving an application. Information sessions will be held in the month of June and require pre-registration. Register online

For more information about the training class, see our Frequently Asked Questions or contact program coordinator Jessica Schweiger (jes6956@psu.edu).