Sarah Ruth
Horticulture and Natural Resources Program Coordinator
Keywords
Master Gardeners
Master Naturalist
(618) 939-3434
Master Gardeners
Master Gardeners are volunteers who have received over 60 hours of training from Extension Educators and State Specialists from the University of Illinois. They receive training in order to share unbiased, reliable, research-based information with home landscapers and gardeners. Another important function is to encourage young people to enjoy the pleasures of flower and vegetable growing.
The Master Gardener program is an all-volunteer program sanctioned by the land grant institution in each state and functions as an extension of the college or university. In Illinois, the program is sponsored by University of Illinois Extension.
Thank you for your interest in the Master Gardener Program!
The Illinois Gardener Training is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your knowledge of the science of gardening in Illinois. This comprehensive program includes sessions on ornamentals, vegetables, fruits, insects, and soil, and is open to anyone interested in learning more about gardening in our state.
Many participants choose to take the next step and become Master Gardener volunteers. As a Master Gardener, you’ll discover countless opportunities to continue learning beyond the classroom—whether through hands‑on work in demonstration gardens or by sharing educational outreach in your community.
We’re excited to help you grow your skills and connect with others who share your passion for gardening!
Become a Master Gardener
To become a Master Gardener, you should have a strong desire to learn more about horticulture and a willingness to promote gardening education. The program provides an opportunity to learn, work, and share experiences with like-minded individuals. Previous horticulture experience and a college degree are not required.
Hybrid training is held from September through November on odd number years. Hybrid training includes 5 hours of online learning and 3 hours of classroom learning. The next training will be offered in fall 2025.
Online training is offered three times a year. It is a self-paced training. Sessions begin in January, June, and September.
Please contact Sarah Ruth for additional information at ruth1@illinois.edu or 618-939-3434.
Online Training
Registration for the fall Illinois Gardener Training is open through August 18, 2025, with the State Master Gardener program.
The online training option is self‑paced, giving you the flexibility to learn on your own schedule. There are no set times to connect with Extension Educators, allowing you to work through the material whenever it’s most convenient for you.
Training begins: September 15, 2025
Cost: $300
Hybrid Training
Registration for the fall Illinois Gardener Training is open through August 18, 2025, with the local Extension office.
The hybrid training option combines the flexibility of online learning with the benefit of in‑person sessions. Weekly classes meet on Tuesdays from September 9 through November 25, 2025, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Extension office.
Class locations will rotate between the Edwardsville and Waterloo Extension offices based on meeting space availability.
Participants will complete 4 to 5 hours of online homework each week prior to the Tuesday session. In‑person classes feature:
- An Extension Educator presentation
- Practice questions for research
- Hands‑on activities to reinforce learning
This training is a great way to deepen your gardening knowledge while connecting with fellow plant enthusiasts in your community.
All costs include the Master Gardener manual and additional training materials for both online and hybrid. In return for the training, Master Gardener trainees give back at least 60 hours of volunteer time to their home counties on approved Extension projects.
*Participants may be eligible for fee waivers, please contact us for details.
Master Gardener Volunteering
After completing the Illinois Gardener Training, you will be eligible to become a Master Gardener volunteer pending approval through the required screening process.
Master Gardeners make a meaningful impact in their communities in a variety of ways:
- Working in demonstration and community gardens
- Providing educational outreach at farmers markets and local events
- Partnering with schools to teach youth about gardening
These opportunities not only support your community but also offer a truly rewarding experience as you continue to grow your skills and knowledge.
The volunteer screening process typically takes 3 to 6 months.
- You can begin the process after you complete the Illinois Gardener Training.
- Or you can start now! Click the link below to register as a Master Gardener.
A local $50 fee supports the Master Gardener program in your county. Please complete the local Master Gardener registration by August 15, 2025. Once your registration is received, we will contact you to schedule a meeting to review training guidelines and walk you through the screening process.
Unit Master Gardener Registration
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Master Gardener & Master Naturalist Training Scholarship Program
University of Illinois Extension is providing scholarships for the Master Gardener & Master Naturalist Training program sponsored by St. Clair County Extension & Education Foundation, Madison County Extension Education Foundation, and the Monroe County Extension & 4-H Education Foundation. Approved candidates will receive scholarship money following completion of the training and passing of the University of Illinois Extension volunteer background checks. One scholarship will be available for each county per year. Application must be submitted by August 16, 2023.
Qualifications
Candidates must be a resident of Madison, Monroe, or St. Clair Counties.
Candidates must be at least 19 years of age.
Scholarship Applications
Access scholarship applications for the Master Gardener & Master Naturalist Training program.