The Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Program is a training program for volunteer educators who are interested in spreading the good word about best horticultural practices  to others in the community. As a VCE-MG, you'll  meet and work with people who share your interests, and you'll have the opportunity to advance your horticultural knowledge by participating in seminars and special events.

Is the VCE-Master Gardener Program For You?

You’re a good candidate for the VCE-Master Gardener program if you:

• Have an interest in horticulture; and
• Enjoy sharing horticultural knowledge and teaching environmentally-responsible landscape practices to the general public.

Once you receive your certification, you will be asked to:

• Act on behalf of VCE as a volunteer educator in the community
• Take advantage of specialized, ongoing training through the VCE in environmental horticulture

How to Become a Master Gardener

To become a Master Gardener, you must attend at least 50 hours of classroom instruction and contribute 50 hours of volunteer services conducting VCE horticulture-based education programs.

The combined initial 100 hours must be completed in one year, and upon completion, you will earn the title of VCE-Master Gardener. VCE-Master Gardeners who wish to remain active after the initial year are required to contribute at least 20 hours of volunteer service each year, and to participate in at least 8 hours of re-certification training annually.