Master Gardeners

Ainsley Olsen is the newest member of the University of Illinois Extension horticulture team serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell counties. With the growing Master Gardener program, demand for horticulture education, and the addition of the Conservation@Home program it became critical to...

On one hand the concepts are simple, but on the other hand there are details and techniques that help gardeners increase their success at seed starting. In early 2025, University of Illinois Extension hosted a series of hands-on seed starting workshops across Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell...

It did not take long for Rachel Driver to become inspired with the work that happens at University of Illinois Extension. In the fall of 2024, she attended the horticulture core education program and a few months later she was...

Video conferencing may have seen a burst of use during recent years, but its popularity hasn’t waned much. Today, educational, social, and professional opportunities frequently rely on video conferencing software like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meets. Local University of Illinois Extension...

It's been said that "The only reason to give a speech is to change the world." Illinois Extension Master Gardeners (EMG) and Master Naturalists (EMN) are seeking to change their world one speaking engagement at a time through Fulton-Mason-Peoria-Tazewell ...

Continuing education programs have been a foundational part of the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener and Master Naturalist volunteer...

Fresh, local produce will be easier to access in the Havana community soon thanks to a new community garden project based at Mission of Hope. This garden’s purpose is to help feed neighbors in the Havana area. A group comprised of University of Illinois Extension SNAP-Education staff, horticulture...

Education isn’t just in a text book, in a classroom, or on a Zoom call. University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists and Master Gardeners enjoy taking educational hikes and learning about the history of the natural areas around them. The educational hikes with local experts help fulfill the...

Jackie Trotter embodies the spirit of the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener program. Her dedication to her community and her passion for learning has made her a valuable asset, not only to her fellow gardeners but also to countless residents who have benefited from her expertise....

The new Illinois Pollinator website is raising awareness about the importance of pollinators and equipping users with the knowledge and tools to make a difference in pollinator population support. By providing user-friendly tools and evidence-based...