Becoming a Master Gardener
How can I become a Master Gardener?
To become a Master Gardener, you must submit an application, successfully complete the training program held twice a week for seven weeks every other fall, and complete 45 hours of volunteer service, part of which will consist of answering phone questions in the Extension Office, during the year following training. Training is held every other year in the fall. The next training session are in the fall of 2013.
Sussex County Extension Office
Research & Education Center
16483 County Seat Highway
Georgetown, DE 19947
302-856-7303
What is Master Gardener Training?
Master Gardener Training includes topics such as:
- Plant identification
- Soils and plant nutrition
- Plant growth
- Plant propagation
- Insects and their control
- Diseases and their control
- Diagnosing plant problems
- Home landscaping
- Landscape maintenance
- Weed control
- Turf management
- Fruit and vegetable production
- Plant selection
Training is provided by Cooperative Extension specialists and agents, University of Delaware and Delaware State University faculty, nursery industry experts, and veteran master gardeners. The training program includes formal lectures, discussion sessions, tours, workshops, and problem-solving sessions. The training program is held every other year. The next training class will begin in 2013. Kent and Sussex Master Gardeners are trained jointly. Classes alternate between Kent and Sussex Counties.
Master Gardener training does not end with the formal training course. Advanced Master Gardener training opportunities include state, regional, and national workshops; lectures at monthly meetings, special training sessions; and the shared experiences of a group of skilled, experienced gardeners.
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