The Nebraska Master Gardener program is a horticulture-related volunteer training program based in many counties throughout the state. It has been part of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension since 1976. The program extends the outreach of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln by providing volunteers with science-based horticulture education, which prepares them to share their knowledge with the citizens of the State. The program is more than its mission; it is a community rooted in genuine interests in plants, people, experimentation in the garden and landscape, and a love for lifelong learning. Master Gardener volunteers are trained by UNL Extension faculty and staff. They contribute time as volunteers working through their local Extension office to provide horticulture-related information to their community. More specifically, they provide education about sustainable horticultural practices.
Master Gardener training sessions are held at county offices throughout the state. Classes begin in February or March, depending on the location. Participants are required to complete 40 hours of training and 40 hours of volunteer service during the initial year of their involvement in the program. Master Gardener volunteers retain their certification through annual training and volunteering. Most locations conduct training during daytime hours, but some offer evening classes with online learning options. Class topics may vary slightly, depending on location within the state, but all classes will include information on integrated pest management, weeds, insects, diseases, plant selection (turf, woody, and herbaceous plants), landscape management, soils, fertility, and morphology.
While there is an opportunity to advance your skills and become a Certified Master Gardener, anyone can become a Master Gardener. The difference between the two is the expected amount of educational and volunteer hours. The program is flexible, allowing you to choose content by topic at your own pace.
As a Nebraska Extension Master Gardener Volunteer (NE-EMGV) Student, you are required to complete a minimum of 40 hours of education. Once you fulfill this requirement and pass an open-book test with a score of 70 percent or higher, you will be classified as a NE-EMGV Trainee. After completing an additional 40 hours of volunteer activities, you will officially become a Volunteer in the Nebraska Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program. This title will remain with you until the next training sessions begin the following year. Classes are offered twice a year, starting in late January and October.
If you see me out and about volunteering or in the garden, stop and say hi. I’d love to chat more about this fulfilling experience!
To find the closest training location, contact your local county extension office or visit mastergardener.unl.edu.
