Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program

Mark your calendars!

We will begin accepting applications for the 2025-2026 Master Gardener Volunteer training for all Maine counties* in late July 2025. Applications will be reviewed and those accepted will register in September. Training will be held online from October 2025 – March 2026. 

*Note: space may be limited in your county and volunteer opportunities may be limited to specific projects. More information will be available in July. 

Want to stay in the loop?

How to Apply

Participants must complete an application in order to be considered for this program. The application will be available online starting in late July.

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 training program will be divided into three parts, all of which are required:

  • Parts 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.

Training Overview

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.

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.

Technology Requirements

This course content will be entirely online.  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

image of girl gardeningFor 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.

 

 

image of ornamental plants around a paved walkway beside a houseFor your garden.

Maine Gardener Training will teach you the skills needed to take your garden to the next level. This training is 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. Review course information on the webpage.

 

In complying with the letter and spirit of applicable laws and pursuing its own goals of diversity, the University of Maine System does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability physical or mental, genetic information, or veterans or military status in employment, education, and all other programs and activities. The University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services, 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5713, 207.581.1226, TTY 711 (Maine Relay System).