Cultivating plants, people, and communities since 1973, the Extension Master Gardener Program established at Washington State University fosters thriving communities and supports a healthy planet through research-based horticulture education and environmental stewardship practices.
Through a variety of outreach activities like plant clinics, workshops in outdoor classrooms called demonstration gardens, seminars, and plant sales, master gardeners address important societal issues. Volunteers teach about health benefits derived from gardening and being outside interacting with nature. The program’s efforts center on nine priorities that are important to Washingtonians:
- Climate change
- Clean water
- Water conservation
- Soil health
- Pollinators
- Local food
- Plant biodiversity
- Nearby nature
- Wildfire preparedness
The process of becoming a WSU Extension master gardener is enjoyable and rewarding. Volunteers are next door-neighbors, friends, and family who enjoy gardening, want to learn more, meet new people, and give back to their communities in meaningful ways.