Penn State Master Gardeners are volunteers who support Penn State Cooperative Extension's educational programs in consumer horticulture. They develop their horticultural expertise through participation in educational programs conducted by Penn State University faculty and Cooperative Extension staff.
Master Gardener soil and plant clinic at John Rudy Park Open House
Master Gardener trainees are selected on the basis of an interview and a pretest. They then embark on 45 hours of classes, both virtual and in-person, that cover a wide range of horticulture topics. At the end of the classes, they complete a post-test and a 10 minute presentation. When they have completed all this and 50 hours of volunteer time they are certified as Penn State Master Gardeners. To retain certification they must complete 10 hours of advanced education and 20 hours of volunteer service each year.
Due to staffing changes, the 2024-2025 Basic Training class in York County has been postponed until 2025-2026.
If you are interested in being considered for the next class, please send your name, address, phone number and e-mail address to Michelle Lombardo Smith at mls7368@psu.edu,or mail to Penn State Extension, 2401 Pleasant Valley Rd, York, PA 17402
