How to Become a Master Gardener!

Our next Master Gardener Volunteer training begins in November 2025.

Click here to sign-up to receive information about our next Master Gardener Volunteer Training.

What is a Master Gardener Volunteer?

The Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a national initiative where trained volunteers partner with their local Cooperative Extension offices to share gardening knowledge with the community.

Here in Columbia and Greene Counties, Master Gardener Volunteers collaborate with Cornell Cooperative Extension to:

• Teach classes and workshops on gardening and landscaping topics.
• Answer gardening questions through our Horticulture Diagnostic Helpline.
• Design and tend demonstration gardens at our offices and participate in vegetable trial research.
• Provide information at public events like fairs and farmers’ markets.
• Help with community gardening projects, focusing on food security and sustainable practices.
• Produce a gardening podcast and publish a Master Gardener newsletter.

Our volunteers empower community members with research-based gardening information while fostering a love for plants and the environment.

Who Becomes a Master Gardener Volunteer?

Master Gardener Volunteers come from all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. You don’t need professional gardening or landscaping experience—just a love for gardening and a desire to share your knowledge!

Our volunteers are students, parents, grandparents, working professionals, and retirees. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, you can make a positive impact.

All we ask is that you have time to volunteer, a willingness to learn, and an enthusiasm for helping others.

How Do I Become a Master Gardener Volunteer?

In Columbia and Greene Counties, we offer a comprehensive training program every other year to prepare new volunteers. The next training begins in November 2025 , and applications will open in August 2025, with a deadline of September 12, 2025 .

Training Overview:

• Online Learning: Weekly assignments, including lectures, online discussions, knowledge checks, and written reflections, can be completed on your own schedule.
• In-Person Classes: Hands-on workshops and lessons take place approximately three Saturdays a month (9:00 AM–4:00 PM) for five months.
• Zoom Classes: Live virtual sessions are held every Wednesday evening from 6:30–8:00 PM during the training.

The application process includes a review of your application, an interview, reference checks, and a background check. Accepted participants will be notified by early November 2025.

The cost of the training is $300, and scholarships are available based on financial need.

Volunteer Requirements:

After completing the training, you will be expected to contribute 150 hours of volunteer service within the first two years. To remain active in the program, you’ll then need to complete 50 hours annually.

As a volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in many rewarding activities, including:

• Helping answer gardening questions from the public.
• Writing gardening articles or creating educational materials.
• Designing and maintaining demonstration gardens.
• Giving presentations or workshops to community groups.
• Assisting with educational exhibits at fairs, farmers’ markets, and other public events.
• And more!

Why Join the Program?

Master Gardener Volunteers build relationships, expand their gardening skills, and make a meaningful impact in their communities. They also gain access to Cornell’s cutting-edge research and become part of a statewide network of passionate gardeners.

Interested? Sign Up for More Information!

Click here to sign-up to receive information about our next Master Gardener Volunteer Training.

Have questions? Please reach out to Xandra Powers at [email protected].

Last updated January 27, 2025