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 interns to become a certified Master Gardener Volunteers. 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. 

Self-Paced Online Training | $300
Winter/Spring 2025 | February 3-April 30 | Register by January 13

Summer 2025 | June 9-August 30 | Register by May 19

Fall 2025 | September 15-December 31 | Register by August 18 
To register, please visit: go.illinois.edu/IllinoisGardenerTraining
 

Hybrid Training | $175
Winter/Spring 2025 | Tuesdays | 9 AM-Noon | February 4-April 15
Register by January 27
In-person portion at Piatt County Extension (Monticello) and Decatur Public Library (Decatur) 
 

Fall 2025 | Tuesdays | 9 AM-Noon | September 9-November 25
Register by September 1
In-person portion at DeWitt County Extension Office (Clinton) and Macon County Extension (Decatur)  Will not meet Nov 18
 

Once you submit this Master Gardener class registration:

If you are in DeWitt or Piatt County, please contact Beth Miglin at 217-762-2191 or bmiglin@illinois.edu with any questions.