The process for selecting students for a new Master Gardener class began with a public interest forum, held August 27, 2024.  You can view a recording of the Forum presentation here. The presentation covered topics such as why become a Master Gardener, how to apply, and classroom training. Attendance at the Forum is not a requirement for application submission.

A selection committee of current Master Gardeners reviews all applications, interviews applicants, and recommends individuals for the training class. The application is available for download here.

The training course is a series of about 18 classes that meet from 8:45 am to 2:45 pm on Tuesdays, generally from January into June.  There is a class fee to cover textbooks and other expenses.  Classes are scheduled to be held at the County Operations Center on Overland Ave. in San Diego, with some select classes taught via Zoom.  The classes taught by agricultural experts provide a basic introduction to horticulture and pest management.  Topics include botany, soils and fertilizers, irrigation, entomology, plant pathology, weed management, vertebrate pests and the culture of vegetables, fruit trees and woody ornamentals.  Students who successfully complete the training course and pass a final exam are certified as UCCE Master Gardeners. 

Master Gardener volunteers help UCCE provide County residents with research-based information in the areas of home gardening, noncommercial horticulture and pest management.  In exchange for their training, new Master Gardeners agree to complete at least 50 hours of volunteer service in approved activities within one year of being certified.  After the first year, veteran Master Gardeners agree to complete a minimum of 25 hours of volunteer service and 12 hours of continuing education annually to remain active in the program.

Please read the FAQ for more information before you fill out an application.

If you want to be added to our mailing list and be informed when recruitment for the next MG class begins click here.
This link will take you to our registration page on Constant Contact where you can enter your name, email and other information. After registering you will receive an email from Constant Contact with a link to a menu where you can select the information you want to receive.