Master Gardener Training

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.

 

Winter/Spring 2026 hybrid training is offered on Tuesdays, February 3 to April 14, from 9 a.m. to noon. This training includes videos, a Master Gardener manual, reading materials, and quizzes. Participants will study online each week and attend a weekly in-person session for 12 weeks. 
 

Upon completing the training, participants can join the Master Gardener volunteers, contributing to the community by answering gardening questions, teaching children, planning workshops, and creating demonstration gardens.