Becoming a Master Gardener

The following steps will help explain your path to becoming a Master Gardener in Delaware County

1.  Complete the Master Gardener Application
Call the Extension office for an application or you can pick it up prior to the above session.  Please provide all information requested and return to the office by the deadline listed. At that time references will be asked for and checked.                                                          Call 740-833-2030 or an application.

2.  Personal Interview
Meet with a representative of the Master Gardening Association for personal interview.  Discuss your goals, skills and talents.  This is a great time to ask any other questions you may have.

3.  Receive an Acceptance Letter
Because enrollment is limited, not all applicants will be able to enter the current training session.  You will be notifed by mail of your acceptance.
Note:  There is a possibility that you will not get into the current class the first time you apply.  If you are not able to participate in the current year's training, please re-apply the next year!

4.  Pay the Course Fee
A  fee for  the upcoming class will be $250.00*which covers a course manual and handouts. It also provides a manual, educational handouts, monthly newsletters and the "Gardening with Gary" newsletter. 

*Note - $50.00 is returned to you once you have completed your initial 50 hour requirement.

5.  Attend Training Classes
Classes will meet on Tuesday afternoons from 1:00pm to 5:00pm for a period of 12  weeks.    Attendance is mandatory.  The course is based on the OSU Master Gardener Manual.  Lectures are in addition to the classes and are an enhancement to the course material.  Should illness and an emergency cause an absence, arrangements must be made to acquire that evenings lecture information.

6.  Complete and Pass the Final Exam
The final exam is held at the end of the course schedule.  References are made to the manual, lecture notes and OSU fact sheets and bulletins.

7.  Complete 50 Hours Volunteer Activities
Delaware County offers a variety of volunteer opportunities.  Sharing your knowledge with the general public in several ways.  Master Gardener interns must complete 50 hours of volunteer time by the end of the first fiscal year, which runs from May 1 - April 30.

In exchange for the training program participants have the opportunity to volunteer for some of the following services:

• Answering Hotline questions on the phone
• Diagnosing plant problems in the office
• Information booths at parks, nursery and fairs
• Demonstrations
• Teaching gardening classes
• Help train New Master Gardeners
• Numerous other projects as determined by the Master Gardener Association. 

8.  Receive your Master Gardener Designation
New Master Gardeners are recognized at a banquet held in August.  You will receive a certificate designating you as a Master Gardener.

9.  Continue and Keep it Going!
To keep and Master Gardener designation you must fullfull yearly educational programs for 8 hours a year and 10 hours of Volunteer opportunities.

Updated: December, 2006