How to Become a Master Gardener Volunteer

The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program recruits individuals who are interested in gardening and enjoy sharing what they learn with others. Participants complete a 50-hour (or longer) training course sponsored by the University of Florida and the local county Extension office.

Interested applicants should contact their county Extension office.

In return for their training, these new Master Gardener Volunteers serve 75 hours within the first year of their certification, per the statewide program bylaws.

Certified Master Gardener Volunteers work through their county Extension office to educate Floridians and provide research-based information about gardening—America’s most popular pastime. Master Gardener Volunteers can fulfill their volunteer hours in a variety of ways, including:

• answering horticultural questions over the phone, in person, or through a regular newspaper column
• participating in community and school garden projects
• giving educational programs to the public
• supporting youth activities
• performing soil sample evaluations
• certifying Florida-Friendly yards through the Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Program

Master Gardener Volunteers can renew their certification by participating in 10 learning hours and completing 35 volunteer hours each year. They must also adhere to the Master Gardener Volunteer policies.

Our Vision

To be the most trusted resource for horticultural education in Florida.