Interested in Becoming a Master Gardener?
Do you have a passion for gardening, a thirst for learning things, and a desire to volunteer in our community with other like-minded gardening friends? If that sounds like you, consider applying for the Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Program. You don’t need to be a plant expert, but you will need to have an email account and basic computer skills.
What the Program Includes
The training is divided into two key phases:
Classroom Training
Master Gardener Training Class
From late February to early May, you'll attend sessions twice a week—Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 AM–12:30 PM—at various James City County and Williamsburg locations. Some content may be delivered online.
Garden topics include:
- Soil science & fertilizers
- Entomology (insects)
- Plant propagation
- Fruits & vegetables
- Woody & herbaceous plants
- Turf management
- Pruning techniques
- Water quality
- Plant pathology (diseases)
- Pesticide safety
- Landscape design
Internship & Volunteer Service
Historic Triangle Learning Garden
After classroom training, you’ll complete 50 volunteer hours alongside certified Master Gardeners. These hands-on projects support local gardening initiatives and community education. Once completed, you’ll earn the title of Extension Master Gardener.
Explore our website to learn more about the program, see examples of our community outreach and programs, and learn how to apply for the 2026 Master Gardener Training Class.
Frequently Asked Questions (PDF Document)
Ready to Grow With Us? Fill out the Interest Form below to receive updated information on our next training class.
If you have additional questions, please contact us at: [email protected]