Ontario CCE, Gardening, Master Gardener

What is the Master Gardener Program?
The Master Gardener Program is a national program of trained volunteers who work in partnership with their county Cooperative Extension office to extend information throughout their communities. The first Master Gardener program was started in Washington State in 1972.

Who becomes a Master Gardener?
Master Gardeners are people who have some horticultural experience and a sincere desire to share that experience with others. Master Gardeners come from all walks of life, and are united by their enthusiasm for plants and people.

How Do I Become a Master Gardener?
To become a Master Gardener, send your name, address and phone number to: Nancy Anderson at the Cornell Cooperative Extension, 480 North Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424. You will be notified several months in advance of the next training, usually in December or January. All applicants will have an in-office interview. Selection of new Master Gardener trainees will be made and training would begin either the end of January or early February. Training is usually held one day a week from 9 am to 3 pm for a 10-12 week period. This is a regional training and thus the training site may vary, but is often held in Ontario County. Trainees will receive 40 to 60 hours of course instruction on topics such as: plant nutrition, soils, fruit and vegetable culture, care and maintenance of lawns and landscape plants, garden insects and diseases and much more.

Is there any cost?
Yes, there is a one time $150.00 fee that covers the cost of training materials, speaker fees, refreshments, etc. Limited scholarships are available for those who show financial need. Contact our office at (585) 394-3977 x 427 or email Nancy Anderson to request a scholarship form.

What Does A Master Gardener Do?
Master Gardeners are expected to share their horticultural training with the community in the form of 100 hours of volunteer work with Cooperative Extension over a two year period. Volunteer activities are somewhat flexible. After your initial 100 hours over a two year period you may continue as a Master Gardener by signing a statement that you will give a minimum of 25 hours of volunteer time over the coming year back to Cornell Cooperative Extension. This pledge becomes an annual event.

Some activities include:

Put together exhibits and displays
Give gardening lectures/demonstrations to outside groups and organizations
Teach horticultural classes that are open to the general public
Attend monthly Master Gardener organizational meetings
Participate in the annual plant sale fundraiser
Work with 4-H youth and school projects related to horticulture
Organize spring and fall garden symposiums
Answer questions and give horticultural advice to clients
Host a tour of your garden
Attend inservice opportunities on a county, state and regional level

How Does the Master Gardener Program Benefit Me?
Through the Master Gardener training sessions and workshops, you will become a more knowledgeable gardener. You will have access to numerous Cooperative Extension gardening materials. You will be able to attend Master Gardener workshops and participate in field trips with other Master Gardeners from around the state. Finally, you will have a chance to meet other people who share your interest in gardening.