Become a Master Gardener

WSU Extension Master Gardeners
are volunteer community educators.

The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program trains volunteers to be effective community educators in research-based gardening practices and environmental stewardship.

The program is open to those with an interest in gardening and the desire to use their knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm to make a positive impact in our local community. Although gardening experience is not required to participate in the program, having a willingness to learn and to serve your community as a volunteer are highly encouraged and recommended.

To become a WSU Extension Master Gardener volunteer is a 12-month-long commitment in which you must complete these three training activities:

• WA Green School Course – online and offline delivery of content over a 20-week period from October 2026 to February 2027 where you explore a variety of topics such as botany, plant identification, entomology, soil science, plant problem diagnosis, integrated pest management, and pollinators.
• Local Volunteer Training – consists of up to twelve in-person learning labs and/or hands-on training sessions at locations within the Tri-Cities area between October 2026 and March 2027.
• Volunteer Internship – 40 hours of service on designated Benton/Franklin County Master Gardener projects to be completed by September 2027. Work alongside Certified Master Gardeners to apply your newly gained knowledge and skills, gain confidence in community education, and experience what it truly means to be an Extension Master Gardener Volunteer.

If you are curious about what is expected from a Master Gardener Volunteer, review the program expectations here.

If you wish to learn more before applying to become a Master Gardener Volunteer, contact us at (509) 735-3551 or email wsuextension@co.benton.wa.us

Register for one of the virtual informational sessions below to find out more about the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program, the requirements for becoming a Master Gardener, and to ask questions. The session will be approximately 45 minutes depending on the number of questions asked.

We are now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 Extension Master Gardener volunteer training session.
Applications are due no later than August 31, 2026.

To apply, you may complete the application online or download and fill out an application.