Master Gardener Training

Each year we train a new group of horticultural enthusiasts to join us in providing our local community with horticultural education and consultation. Training consists of 50 hours of learning through remote study and hands-on laboratory workshops on a broad range of topics including soil health, propagation, pest management, botany, and more. After training you become a Master Gardener Intern, where you have one year to complete an additional 50 hours of internship training before graduating to become a Master Gardener Volunteer. After graduating you are required to achieve 20 hours of volunteer time and 8 hours of continuing education per year to maintain your certification as a Master Gardener. 

Volunteer hours are completed through numerous opportunities including speaking events, public outreach events, horticulture therapy, youth programs, help desk, volunteering at the VWCC arboretum, marketing and communications, and much more. No matter your background there's an opportunity for you to combine your skills, talents, and passion for gardening. Learn more about the Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardener program here.

The application period has begun for 2024!  Those people who signed up on the Waitlist Form will receive a direct email on what to do next.  Those that did not have an opportunity to do this can go directly to the application.  Complete and submit the application. You will be contacted once the interviews are ready to begin.  

RMGA Trainee Application

The application process is scheduled as follows:

DATE EVENT

Fri. 12/1/23 Application Deadline

Tues. 1/9/24 Interviews Begin

Wed. 1/24/24 Interviews End

Mon. 1/29/24 Acceptance Letters Sent

Wed. 2/7/24 Program Payments Due

Sat. 2/10/24 Orientation

Mon. 2/12/24 2024 Master Gardener Training

Begins