Master Gardener Class Information

The Fayette and Woodford County Cooperative Extension services will offer a Master Gardener class beginning in September 2012  Master Gardeners is an extension-sponsored program designed to provide technical horticultural training in exchange for volunteer hours that promote horticulture education within the community. 

Participants successfully passing the course will be required to volunteer hours of service toward projects designated by the extension service. These hours must be completed in the 12 months following graduation. Only after completing the course and volunteer hours will you be designated a “Master Gardener”. Volunteer projects are educational in nature and include fielding calls and serving customers at the extension office (required), maintaining gardens at the UK arboretum, working various conferences, speaking to groups, providing diagnostic clinics at farmer’s markets, and many others.

“Master Gardener” is a title you may use only when participating in designated Master Gardener activities and only if an active member.  After completing the hours of service, individuals may remain Master Gardeners by joining the Master Gardener’s Association, paying dues and volunteering hours per year after the initial 12 months following completion.

Demand for this class generally far exceeds the available space. In the past we have been able to accept approximately 30-40% of applicants.  We will conduct initial screenings from applications and the top candidates will be interviewed in person. Since many of our activities include children, we will conduct criminal background checks prior to acceptance.

Application forms are included in the  By the Yard Newsletter. If you do not already receive the newsletter and would like to be added to the distribution list please E-MAIL us and we will be glad to add you to the list.