The mission of the Illinois Master Gardener program is “Helping Others Learn to Grow.” To become a Master Gardener all you need is an interest in gardening, time to volunteer in the community, and a desire to share your knowledge with others.
Master Gardener training, taught by University of Illinois Extension educators and specialists, emphasizes practical, research-based information. Training topics include: botany, annuals and perennials, soils, insects, woody ornamentals, vegetables, fruits, turf, integrated pest management, and wildlife. After the training program, Master Gardeners volunteer their time and expertise by sharing their horticulture skills with the community through garden projects, educational outreach and helping others learn to grow.
Upon successful completion of training, volunteers log 40 hours as an intern to become a certified Master Gardener Volunteer. To remain certified, active Master Gardener Volunteers complete 10 hours of continuing education and volunteer 20 hours in approved projects yearly. Volunteer opportunities vary by county.
There are 7 training options in 2024!
Self-Paced Online Training | $300
Winter/Spring 2024 | January 29-April 29 | Register by January 10
Summer 2024 | June 10-September 30 | Register by May 20
Fall 2024 | October 7-December 31 | Register by September 9
Hybrid Training | $175
Winter/Spring 2024 | Tuesdays | 9 AM-Noon | February 6-April 16
Register by January 29
In-person portion at Piatt County Extension Office (Monticello)
Winter/Spring 2024 | Wednesdays | 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM | February 7-April 17
Register by January 29
In person portion at Macon County Extension Office (Decatur)
Fall 2024 | Tuesdays | 9:00 AM-Noon | September 10-November 26
Register by September 6
In-person portion at Decatur Public Library (Decatur)
Fall 2024 | Thursdays | 5:30-8:30 PM | September 12-November 28
Register by September 6
In-person portion at DeWitt County Extension Office (Clinton)
Participants may be eligible to receive a $175 fee waiver, please contact us for details.
A strong internet connection is recommended for the self-paced online and hybrid courses.
Once you submit this Master Gardener class registration:
- The Master Gardener Program Coordinator will contact you for an informal interview.
- Classes and 40 hours of volunteer time are mandatory in order to become a certified active Master Gardener. Volunteer time can be completed within 2 years of taking the course.
- To maintain certification in subsequent years, you must complete 10 hours of continuing education and 20 hours of volunteer activities annually.
If you are in DeWitt or Piatt County, please contact Beth Miglin at 217-762-2191 or bmiglin@illinois.edu with any questions.
If you are in Macon County, please contact Whitney Allison at 217-877-6042 or wallison@illiois.edu with any questions.
