Do you have an interest in gardening, time to volunteer in the community, and a desire to share your knowledge with others? If the answer is yes, consider becoming a Master Gardener volunteer!
Master Gardener volunteers complete training taught by University of Illinois Extension educators and specialists, emphasizing practical, research-based information. Training includes topics such as botany, annuals and perennials, soils, insects, and more!
Upon successful completion of training, volunteers log 40 hours as interns to become certified Master Gardener Volunteers. To remain certified, active Master Gardener Volunteers must complete 10 hours of continuing education and volunteer for 20 hours in approved projects each year. Volunteer opportunities vary by county.
2026 Master Gardener Training
Spring Training Sessions
Tuesdays | Feb. 3-April 14 | 9 a.m. to noon
Two Locations available for training:
Decatur Public Library 130 N. Franklin St.
Piatt County Extension Office 210 S. Market St.
Continuing Education Opportunities
Pests & diseases in home landscapes
University of Illinois IPM Online Training Modules count for 0.5 CE hours per module.
Monthly Continuing Education Series
Videos featuring a variety of Master Gardener related topics.
Four Seasons Gardening
Live and recorded webinars on a variety of horticulture topics perfect for expanding your knowledge base.
Volunteer & Continuing Education Hours
Sarah Vogel
