Become A Master Gardener!
Do you want to learn more about gardening, meet new people and make a difference in the community? The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program may be just right for you. You will learn science-based knowledge to tackle the yard and garden problems that matter to you and to, your friends, neighbors and community.
Program Contact
Sarah Moore, King County Master Gardener Program Coordinator
(425)-738-0109 king.mg@wsu.edu
More Information
Thank you for your application.
The application period for the 2026 volunteer training cohort is now closed. If you are interested in becoming a Master Gardener, please submit your name and email through the “Volunteer Training Notification Form.” We will reach out to you when the next application period opens for the 2027 training.
To learn about the Washington Gardener Certificate, our non-volunteer learning option, continue below.
WSU Extension Washington Green School
Join a community of gardeners dedicated to protecting Washington’s environment. WSU Extension Green School (Green School) provides the knowledge and skills to garden responsibly in our changing climate. Learn practical techniques, connect with experts, and discover how your actions contribute to a healthier future for all.
Registration for Washington Green School is now closed.
To learn more about Washington Green School, please visit the Washington Green School website.
King County Master Gardener Volunteer Training
Note: The Intern Application Period for the Class of 2026 has closed. Get notified when applications open for 2027 King County Master Gardener Training!
The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program is a volunteer program for people with a passion for plants, a drive to learn, and a commitment to serve. Candidates for the program may have a range of experience or knowledge about horticulture, but all have a desire to learn. By joining the program, you are committed to serving the community as a volunteer gardening/horticulture educator. Interested in joining the WSU Extension King County Master Gardener Program? Complete the application and agree to the WSU Master Gardener Program expectations.
Training
All WSU Extension Master Gardener volunteers and all Washington State Gardener Certificate candidates receive in-depth horticulture training provided by university faculty, staff, and specialists. Extension Master Gardener volunteers also receive training on community engagement and how to access the information necessary to support our mission. Training to become an Extension Master Gardener (EMG) volunteer include 3 main components:
- Washington Green School online course. The online course will take place over a 20-week period between October 5, 2025, and February 21, 2026. Green School offers flexible, remote and hybrid training options. This includes self-paced online classes and online review sessions with subject matter experts from WSU. Courses are specific to the PNW’s climate, soil, environment, insects, wildlife, and plants. Training is a big commitment and includes reading (online, no textbook required), homework, quizzes, in-class activities, lectures, and a final exam.
- Local Volunteer Training. Trainees attend in-person workshops, classes and field trips at locations in King County, WA. Applicants should anticipate being available to attend in-person sessions or virtual session on these dates:
- Sat. Oct 18, 2025 Optional welcoming session
- Sat. Jan 10, 2026 Optional Master Gardener Expo and workshop
- King County Intern Training Class of 2026 Post Green School Class Training Schedule
- Sat. Feb 28, 2026 Required, virtual training 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Sun. Mar 8, 2026 Required, in person training 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Warning, clocks spring ahead today)
- Sat. Mar 14, 2026 Required, in person training at Demonstration Gardens. 2 shifts, AM and PM, times will vary
- Sat. Mar 21, 2026 Required, in person training. Groups 1-5 9:00 AM to 11:45 AM Groups 6-9 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM
- Sat. Mar 28, 2026 Required, in Person training at Demonstration Gardens. 2 shifts, AM and PM, times will vary
- Sat. Apr 11, 2026 Required, in person training. Groups 6-9 9:00 AM to 11:45 AM Groups 1-5 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM
- Sat. Apr 18, 2026 Optional Enrichment Activities 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM– Pruning, 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM- Plant Propagations
- Internship/volunteer service. Upon completing their training, trainees transition into their internship. As Master Gardener Interns, they volunteer alongside certified WSU Extension Master Gardeners, gaining comfort in community education and program participation. Interns are expected to complete 40 hours of volunteer service during their first year. Volunteer service includes answering garden questions at our answer clinic, helping to maintain one of our demonstration gardens, giving presentations, or helping with our children’s education team, to name just a few of the many opportunities.
The Intern Application Period for the Class of 2026 has closed. Get notified when applications open for 2027 King County Master Gardener Training!
Ongoing Commitment
WSU Extension Master Gardeners are active across the state and their impacts are impressive. Check out our Annual Reports to read more: 2024 WSU Extension Master Gardener Program Annual Report
After completion of Green School and your 2026 year of internship commitment, you will become a Certified WSU Master Gardener for 2027. To maintain this state certification, volunteers must give at least 25 hours of service and complete at least 10 hours of continuing education each year. Volunteers who have met the minimum requirements will be offered the opportunity to renew their certification for the following year.
There is no fee associated with annual certification.
The passion and dedication demonstrated by WSU Extension Master Gardeners underscores the positive impact that programs like these can have on individuals and communities. The reasons they’ve provided for their involvement highlight the multifaceted benefits of participating in such a program:
Being a WSU Extension Master Gardener offers a continuous learning experience. Participants have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of horticultural science and gardening practices, staying up-to-date on the latest research and techniques.
The sense of community and the opportunity to learn from fellow WSU Extension Master Gardeners contributes to a supportive and enriching environment. Sharing experiences and knowledge among members fosters continuous growth and improvement.
The core aspect of the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program is community service. Participants take pride in using their expertise to benefit their local communities by offering guidance, workshops, and assistance to fellow community members.
WSU Extension Master Gardeners often earn respect and recognition from their communities for their valuable contributions. This acknowledgment can be a source of pride and satisfaction, reinforcing the importance of the work they do.
Involvement in the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program provides a sense of purpose. Participants find fulfillment in contributing to a greater cause, knowing that their efforts positively impact the environment and the well-being of the community.
If you’re passionate about gardening and want to make a positive impact, participating in the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program can be a fulfilling and educational experience. It’s an excellent opportunity to deepen your knowledge, connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts, and give back by sharing your expertise with others.
Frequently asked questions:
A: WGS fee schedule | WA Green School | Washington State University
A small number of needs-based scholarships for one half of the course fee will be available to applicants for the King County Extension Master Gardener track.
A. WGS schedule | WA Green School | Washington State University
The additional training for King County Extension Master Gardener volunteers is as follows:
- Sat. Oct 18, 2025 Optional welcoming session
- Sat. Jan 10, 2026 Optional Master Gardener Expo and workshop
- Sun. Mar 8, 2026 Required, in person training
- Sat. Mar 14, 2026 Required, virtual training
- Sat. Mar 21, 2026 Required in person training
- Sun Mar 29, 2026 In person training (Pruning day)
- TBD Mar In person – plant advice clinic pre-season meeting, scheduled by clinic leaders
- TBD Mar or Apr In person – work and learn Demonstration Garden Event, multiple day and time options
*Please notify the Program Office at king.mg@wsu.edu with concerns about specific dates. After completing their training, Certified Master Gardener Volunteers continue to give back to the community, by volunteering at least 25 hours per year and keeping up to date with 10 hours of required continuing education yearly.
The integration of various topics offers a comprehensive education, encompassing both the science and art of gardening. Additionally, it equips participants with the necessary skills to effectively disseminate this knowledge within the community. This approach underscores the program’s dedication to science-based education and sustainable practices. As a result, graduates of the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program possess a solid horticultural foundation and the confidence to engage in community education and outreach.
A: The first portion of the class, which both Washington State Gardeners and King County Extension Master Gardeners will take, is entirely virtual, with online classes and reading material.
The Extension Master Gardener training is primarily in person, with opportunities to meet fellow trainees, mentors, program leadership and the Extension office team.
A:
- Washington Gardener Certificate track: Upon completion of the coursework, and after passing the quizzes and final exam, participants will earn a certificate that can be used in resumes, to promote businesses or just to demonstrate their deepened understanding of research-based horticulture practices.
- Extension Master Gardener Volunteer track: Participants will continue with local King County training and volunteering and, upon completion of their service hours, will become Certified Master Gardeners at year-end.
A: After achieving certification as a WSU Extension Master Gardener, you commit to volunteering for a minimum of 25 Hours and completing at least 10 Continuing Education Hours annually. At the end of each year, if you’ve met these requirements, your continued interest in the program is confirmed by submitting a very simple application for certification. There is no fee associated with applying for annual certification.
A: There are no continuing commitments upon completing the Washington State Gardener Certificate.
Requirements for being a WSU Extension King County Master Gardener Volunteer
Applicants to the WSU Extension King County Master Gardener Program must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Possess a strong volunteer ethic and an interest in gardening (prior gardening experience is desirable but not required).
- Commit to participating in the Washington Green School and the WSU Extension Master Gardener Training course, including completing the final exam with a minimum score of 80% and achieving an overall average score of at least 80% on all quizzes.
- Engage in the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program training.
- Be available to perform volunteer work as needed by the WSU Extension King County Master Gardener Program.
- Agree to use technology such as email, learning platforms, and the volunteer database.
- Pledge to contribute a minimum of 40 Hours during the training year.
- Commit to donating a minimum of 25 Hours each year after completing the training.
- Complete a minimum of 10 Continuing Education Hours annually after training.
- Document volunteer hours each month using our online system, GivePulse.
- Sign a Pest Management Recommendation Agreement and a Code of Conduct Agreement.
- Complete Child Protection Training.
- Submit a simple application to renew certification each fall. There is no fee associated with certification renewals.
Each year we have more applicants than we can accommodate and cannot accept late applications. We are looking for volunteers throughout King County with special emphasis on locations currently in need of additional Master Gardeners to fully staff our Plant Advice Clinics.
Training for Master Gardener Interns and scheduling for Certified Master Gardeners is largely done online. Please contact us if you need help finding access to:
- Computer that meets these minimum technical requirements
- Internet access
- Access to Zoom account (free)
- Smart phone to access online plant advice resources (strongly recommended)