Role

Master Gardeners are a vital resource to the York County/Poquoson Extension Horticultural Program. These volunteers teach classes, answer horticultural inquiries, present programs, and diagnose plant diseases. Master Gardeners extend the resources of the land-grant university through their volunteer efforts.

Course Overview 

The Master Gardener Training class for 2024, is a 12-week virtual course from August 21 – November 20, utilizing the Canvas learning management system. Canvas course class assignments will be completed on your schedule prior to the required evening Zoom classes on Wednesdays from 7:00pm-8:30pm. There will be optional in-person hands-on Saturday field trips.

Upon graduation the participant will return 50 hours of service to their local Virginia Cooperative Extension by participating in various Master Gardener services to the community such as answering horticulture questions at the help desk, conducting educational programs, leading a team, or providing support to other Master Gardeners in many other areas. To maintain Master Gardener status after the first year, each volunteer must complete 20 hours of service to the community and 8 hours of continuing education, per year.

Course Fee and Application

The cost is $185. Applications will be accepted May 9 - July 3. Course fee includes a digital version of the training manual and a non-refundable background check fee of $12.50. A hard copy of the training manual is available for an additional $55.00.

Classes cover some of the following topics:

  • Insects
  • Lawns
  • Pruning
  • Shrubs
  • Soils
  • Trees
  • Vegetables

To apply for the Master Gardener Training Course, click here.