Horticulture - How to become a Master Gardener

How to become a Master Gardener

You can be a Master Gardener if:

· You can attend all training sessions.

· You can attend 3 of 6 day or evening meetings through the year.

· You are willing to learn and provide research-based information to the public.

· You are willing to share plant information by mentoring or volunteering.

· You can payback 50 hours of service to the community as a member of the Extension team in Adams County.

What kind of training do Master Gardeners receive?

If you are selected for the Master Gardener Program, you will get 60 hours of horticultural training. Classes are taught by Colorado State University Extension Specialists, County Agents, advanced Master Gardeners and other horticultural experts. You will learn about plant growth, weeds, insect control, plant diseases, vegetables, fruits, trees, turfgrass management, soil, xeriscaping and flowers. Classes are held on Thursdays (during the day) from January through March, at the Denver Botanic Gardens or the Adams County Regional Park.

How much does the training cost?

A materials fee is payable after you are accepted into the program. In return for the training, Master Gardeners must payback a total of 50 hours. Forty-two hours must be completed answering phone calls from the general public concerning plants, and eight hours of approved community service, such as:

· Giving educational presentations to groups, such as senior citizens, garden clubs, community associations or schools.

· Working in plant clinics in the community, helping local residents to diagnose plant, insect and disease problems and finding economical solutions.

· Writing articles for our web page and newsletters, newspapers and other publications.

· Staffing exhibit booths at trade shows and county fairs.

· Organizing community gardening projects.

What happens after the training?

Once you are trained, have passed an examination and completed 50 hours of payback time, you become a certified Master Gardener. At a special graduation ceremony, Master Gardeners receive an official certificate from Colorado State University.

Master Gardeners are encouraged to continue in the program. They take extra classes and pay back 25 hours to the community through CSU Extension each year.

What do Master Gardeners do?

The primary responsibility of Master Gardener trainees is to answer questions from area residents about home horticulture. An Extension agent or an advanced master gardener is available to help and advise as needed.

Interested in becoming a Master Gardener?

Download the application from the Forms & Applications page or call the Colorado State University Extension Office at 303-637-8100 and ask for an application form. Applications are accepted in October and November for the following year's class. You will be called for an interview; final selection is made through the interviewing process.

Colorado State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture and Adams County Cooperating.Colorado State University Extension programs are available to all without discrimination.

Home > Horticulture > How to become a Master Gardener

How to become a Master Gardener

Colorado State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture and Adams County Cooperating.Colorado State University Extension programs are available to all without discrimination.