Master Gardener Training Options
It is up to your local county Extension office to decide which type of Master Gardener training format they plan to offer in their county and when. The Illinois Gardener online training program is offered statewide and typically runs three times a year. However, other training formats can be provided locally, depending on the local county's needs. Contact your local county to inquire about their upcoming training offerings. Find your local county on the Local Master Gardener Programs page.
Online Training vs. Hybrid Training
Online Illinois Gardener training:
Designed for any gardener interested in learning more, this entirely self-paced online course is typically offered three times a year. Online training is ideal for individuals who want to work through the course at their own pace and time, and who are unable to attend training at a local Extension office during the day.
- Learn more on the Online Illinois Gardener page. Please note that just because the training is offered three times a year, it doesn't necessarily mean your local county will be ready to take your application at any time of year. Visit the Local Master Gardener Programs page to find out your county's current schedule, if available.
Hybrid Master Gardener training:
Hybrid training is ideal for individuals with some flexibility in their schedule who can attend weekly in-person classes during the day and desire to learn alongside fellow gardeners in person. It is a combination of in-person, hands-on courses held at your local Extension office, typically on Tuesdays, and self-guided online content completed between sessions each week. This course is specifically designed for individuals interested in volunteering as a Master Gardener after completing the course and being accepted into the program.
- The Master Gardener Hybrid Training includes twelve days of training, typically spaced one day per week, covering an introduction and eleven core subject areas. Attendance is required on the in-person days when training is offered. Online assignments and quizzes can be completed at your own pace between weekly sessions.
- The module topics include: Introduction, Botany, Soils and Fertilizers, Plant Diseases, Entomology, Integrated Pest Management, Annuals and Perennials, Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines, Lawns, Small and Tree Fruits, and Vegetables.
- In addition to the in-person sessions, this training utilizes an online learning platform that includes numerous videos and online content, as well as weekly readings. Therefore, a sufficient internet connection is highly recommended for trainees.
- Trainees can expect to spend at least 4 hours per week working on the online content on their own time in addition to the several hours of in-person training.