The WSU Extension King County Master Gardener Program
Cultivating plants, people, and communities since 1973
What we do:
Each year we train new volunteers, equipping them with foundational knowledge to become horticultural educators in their communities. Trained volunteers must continue their volunteer and educational development in subsequent years to give back to the community and stay abreast of current research and our ever-changing environment. Volunteer hours and learning requirements ensure that our Master Gardeners’ skills and knowledge are always up to date.
Our Volunteer Hour Requirements
WSU Extension Master Gardener Interns – 40 service hours must include:
- 15 Answer/Plant Clinics hours, minimum, and
- 10 Demonstration Gardens hours, minimum, and
- additional service* hours, as needed, to complete a total of at least 40 service hours
Certified WSU Extension Master Gardeners:
- 25 service* hours, and
- 10 Continuing Education hours
Emeritus WSU Extension Master Gardeners:
- 5 service* hours, and
- 5 Continuing Education hours
*Note: Service hours may include any combination of Answer/Plant Clinics, Demonstration Gardens, Other Educational Delivery, Program Support, and Youth Outreach hours.
For questions about volunteer requirements and policies, please contact the Program Office at king.mg@wsu.edu.
Extension Master Gardener Educational Outreach
Pest Alert
Japanese beetle
The Japanese beetle was recently found in Washington, with several sightings near SeaTac in King County. WSDA is asking for help in identification and eradication of this destructive pest. You can help by reporting any Japanese beetles to WSDA and treating beetles (if found) to keep populations low. Reporting can occur online at agr.wa.gov/beetles, by emailing PestProgram@agr.wa.gov, or calling 1-800-443-6684. If you are in an affected area, you can sign up for free treatment.
European chafer beetle
The European chafer has become a significant pest of lawns in King County. Damage to the lawn is made more significant by crows and other animals feeding on the grubs. A 2-page European Chafer Supplemental Guide has been distributed to Clinic Leaders to assist Master Gardeners in giving Integrated Pest Management advice to our clients during the 2025 season.
Emerald ash borer
Last year we added a new WSU Fact Sheet #FS384 on the Emerald Ash Borer to our Clinic Resource Box. Emerald ash borer is a highly destructive insect that attacks and kills ash trees. It hasn’t been reported in Washington yet but was discovered in Vancouver B.C. in May 2024 and has been in Oregon since 2022. Sightings should be reported to the Washington Invasive Species Council. Take photos, note date & locations, and place any found insects in the freezer.

