Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program
Due to recent changes in staff responsibilities, we will not be offering the Master Gardener Volunteer (MGV) Training during the 2024/2025 season to give our staff time to regroup and determine an appropriate training schedule and number of MGV trainees we can accept moving forward.
We will be offering two other horticulture training programs during the 2024/2025 season and their websites will soon be updated with relevant program information:
- Boost your resume with Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training: Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training is a 3-part, comprehensive curriculum designed to supply learners with a foundational horticulture education suitable for skilled entry-level positions in the horticulture industry.
- Grow your personal gardening knowledge with Maine Gardener Training: Maine Gardener Training is designed to supply learners with a foundation in horticulture education and skills for use in their personal garden. Recommended for those who would like to access the educational content of the Master Gardener Volunteer training program but are not interested or able to volunteer.
Please note: While both of these trainings cover similar horticulture topics to the Master Gardener Volunteer training, they do not include training related to volunteerism. Participants in any of our other training programs, who wish to join the Master Gardener Volunteer program, will be required to apply the next time the MGV training is offered and, if accepted, complete additional volunteer-related training components.
How to Apply
Participants must complete an application in order to be considered for this program.
Since we are not offering a 2024-2025 training program and are no longer maintaining an interest list, we encourage you to stay up to date on when the next Master Gardener Volunteers Training is being offered by:
- Subscribing to the Maine Home Garden News to receive monthly newsletters with seasonal and timely gardening information as well as announcements for when our horticulture training programs are being offered. Learn more about the Maine Home Garden News and view recent issues here.
- Checking back on our training program website on July 1, 2025.
- Connecting with your county Extension office to see if there’s a monthly newsletter.
- View the list of county resources for prospective volunteers to discover ways to engage with your local horticulture program.
Course Fee
This training program is offered on a sliding scale (self-selected). We strive to make the training accessible and affordable for all Maine residents. The course fee covers expenses including books, supplies, and other direct course-related expenses.
The training program will be divided into three parts, all of which are required:
- Part 1 & 2: The online course consists of self-paced modules and live Q&A sessions using Brightspace and Zoom.
- Part 3: The 40-hour volunteer internship will begin after the online training takes place. Interns will have until the end of the calendar year to complete their 40 hours of volunteer service.
- In order to maintain the Master Gardener Volunteer certification, volunteers must commit to volunteering a minimum of 20 hours every calendar year with an approved project and submit an annual enrollment form.
Part 1 & 2: Online Course
Course Format: Part 1 & 2 of the Master Gardener Volunteers Training will be completed virtually through Brightspace, our online learning platform. Participants can anticipate 4-5 hours of self-paced content a week including reading, videos, and activities. Participants will also get access to live Q&A Zoom sessions with a panel of experts scheduled to take place on Tuesday evenings. Check with your local coordinator(s) about any meet and greets that are scheduled during the training.
In order to become a certified Master Gardener Volunteer, participants must:
- Successfully complete the training by:
- Completing the self-paced learning content
- Receiving an average grade of 80% on the module quizzes
- Completing your Volunteer Internship Proposal
- Complete your Volunteer Internship (at least 40 hours on an approved project) by the end of the calendar year
Course Schedule (tentative)
Module 1: Volunteerism
- Orientation
- Volunteerism
- Food Systems and Food Security
Module: 2: Foundations of Horticulture
- Ecology
- Botany
- Propagation
- Soils and Composting, Part 1
- Soils and Composting, Part 2
Module 3: Food Production
- Vegetables
- Garden Maintenance and Food Safety
- Small Fruits
- Tree Fruits
Module 4: Garden Pests and Diseases
- Prevention
- Identification
- Management
Module 5: Maine Landscapes and Design
- Plants for the Maine Landscape
- Landscape Design and Maintenance
Part 3: Volunteer Internship and Hands-On Learning
To become certified as a Master Gardener Volunteer, all participants must complete an internship that involves volunteering at least 40 hours on approved horticultural projects by the end of the calendar year. Our program provides opportunities for gardeners with all levels of experience to connect with projects in their community. Participants will be expected to complete an internship plan throughout the spring semester. Your local coordinators will help you find approved volunteer opportunities that are well suited to your interests, location and skill sets.
Hands-On Learning: There will be half-day regional workshops offered to Master Gardener Volunteer Interns who are working towards their certification. These workshops will take place in the Fall and Spring, and will be held in the southern, central, and northern parts of the state. Exact dates and locations will be announced soon. These workshops will feature demonstrations on seasonal topics and the opportunity to connect with volunteers in your county. Please note: These workshops are regional and may require a longer drive.
Technology Requirements
This course content will be entirely online with optional hands-on classes. An email address, access to a reliable internet connection, the newest version of your web browser and an electronic device (i.e. laptop, desktop, iPad, or tablet) with video/audio capabilities are required to complete this course.
Is online learning right for you? Online learning is an accessible, affordable, and flexible learning environment that allows students to work around their personal schedules to obtain quality education. If you are wondering if online learning is right for you, please visit Online Learning: What You Need to Succeed.
Do you need access to a computer or reliable internet to participate in this training?
- To complete coursework: you may contact your local Extension office to schedule a time to use their WiFi during office hours (in the building) or use WiFi anytime from the parking lot.
- Contact the National Digital Equity Center for no cost or low cost tablets for Maine Residents who are of low to moderate income.
- Many public libraries have computers available for public use. Contact your local library for more information.
- If you are still unable to find access, please contact your local Extension office.
Accommodations: If you need a reasonable accommodation, please contact us at extension.mastergardeners@maine.edu or 207-581-3188.
Other Available Training Programs
For your career. Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training is a micro-credential program developed with input from industry experts. This training is recommended for those who are or will be considering skilled, entry-level employment in the horticulture industry. Review full course information on the webpage.
