The Penn State Extension Master Gardener basic training program is open to individuals, age 18 and older, interested in becoming volunteers and sharing gardening knowledge with the public through community outreach. The intensive horticultural training is taught by Extension educators and University professors.
Basic Training Soils Workshop
Course Details
The Master Gardener Program is administered at the county level where recruitment, training, and volunteer service occur. Master Gardener trainees are required to participate in a minimum of 40 hours of classroom training, score 80 percent on the midterm and final exam, and fulfill 50 hours of volunteer service.
Basic training class schedules vary based on location and include the following topics: botany, plant propagation, soil health and fertilizer management, composting, controlling pests safely, entomology, plant diseases, indoor plants, vegetables, tree and small fruits, lawn care, pruning, woody ornamentals, herbaceous plants, native plants, weeds and invasives, and landscape design. The training fee includes a copy of the Penn State Master Gardener Manual.
Application
Before completing the Master Gardener application, contact the county Extension office in your area for an updated schedule of classes and program cost. Financial aid may be available through your local Extension office. Basic training for Master Gardeners is not offered annually in every county. Send the completed application to the county where you reside. Candidates must be 18 years old or older.
Questions
Contact your county Master Gardener program with any questions.
