The Texas Master Gardener program is designed for those passionate about maintaining lawns, trees, shrubs, flowers and gardens. After completing a training course and fulfilling their volunteer commitment, participants become certified master gardeners.

Known for their enthusiasm, willingness to learn, help others and communicate with diverse groups of people, one distinguishing feature of master gardeners is their special training in horticulture. As part of the program, individuals receive training and contribute their time as volunteers in exchange, providing horticulture-related information to their communities through a local extension office.

A potential master gardener should want to learn more about the culture and maintenance of many types of plants; be eager to participate in a practical and intense training program; look forward to sharing knowledge with people in the community; and have time to attend training and complete volunteer service. They may contact their local extension office to see if there is a master gardener program in their county. Not all counties have a program.

If a program is available, obtain an application from the master gardener coordinator at the office. The course provides a minimum of 50 hours of instruction that covers topics such as lawn care, ornamental trees and shrubs, insect, disease, weed management, soils, plant nutrition, vegetable gardening, home fruit production, garden flowers and water conservation.

Classes are taught by Texas AgriLife Extension specialists, agents and local experts at different times and locations throughout the year. Check with a county extension office for specific details. Participants are required to volunteer at least 50 hours of service within one year following the training. The type of service varies according to community needs, abilities and interests. Examples include answering telephone requests for gardening information, staffing plant clinics or displays, speaking to local groups, conducting workshops, establishing community garden projects, working with 4-H youth and assisting agents with news or radio releases related to gardening.

For more information, visit Mastergardener.tamu.edu/become/.