1. Programs

Master Gardener™

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The Oregon State University Extension Master Gardener™ program educates Oregonians about the art and science of growing and caring for plants. We are in 27 counties across the state, and train thousands of Master Gardener volunteers. OSU Extension Master Gardeners are volunteer educators, neighbors, and on-the-ground researchers who serve their community with solid training in science-based, sustainable gardening and a love of lifelong learning.

Master Gardeners are

  • Reliable: our gardening advice and education is science-based.
  • Relevant: customized information for your area and gardening situation.
  • Reachable: Call us on the phone, email us a question, or visit with us at markets or gardens in your community.
Learn more about what it means to be a Master Gardener
Photo: Melissa Askew (Cropped from original)

Meet some Master Gardener volunteers

Smiling woman with glasses posing with onion harvest.

“I decided to become a Master Gardener because I have a passion for growing food and I want to teach people with limited access to fresh, organic produce the skills to grow their own. This process has been everything that I hoped Master Gardening would be.”
—Emily Herb

Photo courtesy of Emily Herb
Smiling woman with glasses and hat in a garden.

"Becoming a certified Master Gardener allows me to realize one of my values, community activism, which is built into the program."
—Pashalle Johnson

Photo courtesy of Pashalle Johnson
Smiling woman with shovel in a rose garden.

“Being a part of the gardening community was like finding my way home. I have loved every minute of being a Master Gardener. Giving back to the community through public service is the core of the program and is personally rewarding.”
—Paula Lupcho

Photo courtesy of Paula Lupcho
Woman wearing a ballcap riding a lawn tractor.

"I lived in apartments and could not do much gardening. As soon as my life permitted, I became a Master Gardener and have made wonderful new friends. I am keeping pesticide use down by showing people better ways to manage their gardens."
—Susan Morton

Photo courtesy of Susan Morton
Man standing next to a display of flower bulbs - Pop Up Plant Clinic

“The [Master Gardener] class has provided me a very good foundation for gardening in the Pacific Northwest. The Master Gardener volunteer experience has been a very rewarding experience. I enjoy meeting new people at the Master Gardener volunteer events.”
—Jesse Garcia

Photo Courtesy of Benton County Master Gardener Association
Master Gardeners staffing phone helpline
Credit: Marcia McIntyre

Are you ready to become a Master Gardener?

When you become a Master Gardener, you become a vital community volunteer!

Master Gardener training

Do you have questions about gardening, pests, weeds or how to better grow plants?

You can connect directly with Master Gardeners in your area, ask questions online, or access our online resources.

Get your gardening questions answered
Photo Credit: Bob - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original)

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