The programs differ from state to state and province to province, but the core curriculum is pretty much the same. The student learns about plant propagation, pests and diseases, growing fruits, lawn care, house plants, pruning techniques, trees and shrubs, landscape design, vegetable and flower gardening, and basic botany. The fees for most programs are reasonable, usually under $200, and the knowledge gained is priceless. In return the Master Gardener must contribute a certain number of volunteer hours each year, depending on each program’s requirements.
Volunteerism can be in as many forms as it is humanly possible to think up. During my first year as a Master Gardener, another lady and I started a local garden club. I've contributed articles to our quarterly newsletter. I've planted and tended gardens on public grounds. The possibilities are endless. Some county extensions have very definite areas where they want their Master Gardeners to perform. The eastern Massachusetts Master Gardeners help out at the annual flower show in Boston. Now, that’s tough duty! Other extension services don’t much care how you volunteer as long as you are doing something. You must keep up with your volunteer hours to maintain your Master Gardener status.
Most states offer Master Gardener training classes in late winter and spring. Now is the time to apply if you are interested. Many have mid-December deadlines for registration. The competition is fierce and only the most experienced gardeners are accepted.
