Become a Master Gardener

How Do I Become a Master Gardener?

You become a Master Gardener by successfully completing the Master Gardener 40-hour training program and then volunteering your time.

What Does a Master Gardener Do?

Master Gardeners help the University of Maryland  Extension solve gardening problems and teach environmentally sound practices by

• working in information booths at community events and fairs,
• maintaining demonstration gardens,
• answering garden questions at plant clinics,
• teaching horticulture to beginning gardeners and youth, and
• using special talents, such as writing and photography, to benefit the program.

How Are Master Gardeners Trained?

Master Gardener training classes are conducted annually by University of Maryland Extension.  Through the training program. Participants are taught many different horticultural subjects by specialists, educators, and other horticulture professionals.

Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne's, and Talbot Basic Training Program:

In 2019, our basic training to take place from February 21, 2019 to April 27, 2019. Classes will be from 5:30-8:30pm on Thursday evenings and 9:00-12:00 noon on Saturday mornings. This schedule should accommodate those with a traditional working schedule. Please submit applications by: January 30, 2019.

What Are The Master Gardener Training Topics?

Master Gardeners are trained in the following topics:

• Botany
• Composting
• Diagnosing plant problems
• Ecology
• Entomology
• Flower gardening
• Lawn care
• Organic gardening
• Pesticide use and safety
• Soils and fertilizers
• Tree and shrub care
• Vegetable gardening

Other subjects of interest may be included.

What Does Master Gardener Training Cost?

Training costs are $200 for the basic training courses, and includes the Master Gardener Handbook.  The volunteer application and check should be sent to the University of Maryland Extension - Queen Anne's County, 505 Railroad Avenue, Suite 4, Centreville, MD 21617.  All checks should be made payable to the Queen Anne's County Extension Advisory Committee (QAC EAC).

If you would like to pay by credit card, the cost is $210 (additional charges may apply).  The volunteer application form is required to be sent into the office to hold your spot.  The link can be found here: 

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-upper-and-mid-shore-master-gardener-basic-training-tickets-54148721283

Who do I contact?

Please contact your local Master Gardener Coordinator according to the county of your residence:

Dorchester Emily Zobel ezobel@umd.edu; Talbot and Caroline County-Mikaela Boley mboley@umd.edu