Illinois Extension Master Gardeners fulfill the program's mission statement, "Helping Others Learn to Grow" by volunteering their time and expertise sharing their horticulture skills with the community.
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 is taught by University of Illinois Extension educators and specialists, emphasizing practical, research-based information.
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.
Training topics include: (Participants may be eligible to receive a $175 fee waiver; please contact us for details.)
- Botany
- Annuals and perennials
- Soils
- Insects
- Woody ornamentals
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Turf
- Integrated pest management
- Wildlife
- The Master Gardener Program Coordinator will contact you with more information on the next steps.
- Classes and 40 hours of volunteer time are mandatory 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.
