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Become a
Master Gardener

Cultivating plants, people &
communities since 1973
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Join us!

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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.

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Thank you for applying

Our application for the 2025-2026 volunteer training cohort is now closed.

If you are interested in becoming a Master Gardener next year, please submit your name and email to the “Volunteer Training Email Form” below and we will contact you when the next application period opens.

Volunteer Training Email List

Please complete this form if you would like to receive information about our next volunteer training. We will reach out when that information is available. Thank you for your interest in Pierce County Master Gardeners!

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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.

Green School offers two distinct tracks:

  1. One track for individuals looking to enhance their gardening skills through research-based horticultural and environmental stewardship, the Washington Gardener course.
    • (Please note that enrolling in Green School to pursue the Washington Gardener Certificate, does not lead to a Master Gardener certification. If you wish to become a certified Master Gardener volunteer, please consider applying for our next training in 2026.)
  2. Another track for those who wish to take it further by becoming a WSU Extension Master Gardener Program volunteer (read below).
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Pierce County Master Gardener Volunteer 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 in experience or knowledge about horticulture, but all have a desire to learn. By joining the program, you are committing to serving the community as a volunteer gardening/horticulture educator. Interested in joining the WSU Extension Pierce County Master Gardener Program? Complete the application (information below) and agree to the WSU Master Gardener Program expectations. 

Training

All WSU Extension Master Gardeners (EMG’s) receive in-depth horticulture training provided by university faculty, staff, and specialists. Training is critical to ensure that all volunteers have access to the information necessary to support our mission. Training to become an Extension Master Gardener (EMG) volunteer include 3 main components:

  1. Green School online course. The online course will take place over a 20-week period between October 2026, and February 2027. 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 text required), homework, quizzes, in-class activities, lectures, and a final exam.
  2. Local Volunteer Training. Trainees attend in-person labs or field trips at locations across Pierce County, WA. Applicants should anticipate being available to attend in-person sessions (primarily in Puyallup).
  3. Internship/volunteer service. Upon completing their training, trainees transition into their internship. As interns, they volunteer alongside certified WSU Extension Master Gardeners, enhancing their knowledge and skills while gaining comfort in community education and program participation. Interns are expected to complete 40 hours of volunteer service their first year. Volunteer service include 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.

Application Process

The next application in Pierce County will be for the training that begins in October 2026. The application process will include the following steps:

  1. Interested applicants can apply using our online application between July 1st – 31st, 2026.
  2. Accepted applicants will be notified by the end of August.
  3. In September, after applying for and being accepted into the volunteer program, you will be asked to complete a mandatory background screening. 

Ongoing Commitment

WSU Extension Master Gardeners are active across the state and their impacts are impressive. We have a user-friendly reporting system so that logging hours, reporting outreach, and signing up for projects is simple. We’re required to report our efforts locally and to the state annually – we want to show off the good work our volunteers are doing! Check out our Annual Reports to read more: 2024 WSU Extension Master Gardener Program Annual Report

After we’ve put our outdoor gardens to bed, we start our annual renewal process for all Master Gardeners. Annual certification in the Extension Master Gardener Program is not automatic. After completion of Green School and your internship commitment, you will become certified. To maintain certification, volunteers must give at least 25 hours of service and earn at least 10 hours of continuing education each year. Volunteers who have met the minimum requirements to remain certified will be offered the opportunity to request continuing certification for the following year.

There is no fee associated with annual certification.

Additional Details

A: WGS fee schedule | WA Green School | Washington State University

A: There is one required textbook, PNW Gardeners Handbook: Growing for the Future which will be available to you through your course fees.

There are no perquisites for this non-credit course other than a desire to learn and if you choose the volunteer route, a demonstrated volunteer ethic. You will need a computer, email address and reliable, high-speed internet to successfully participate in our online training program.

A: Estimated 180 hours over 11 months.

  • Completion of online Green School course (120 hours).
  • Approximately 20 hours of in-person, in-county labs, activities, and field trips.
  • 40 hours volunteering as an Extension Master Gardener intern.
  • Be prepared to spend 6-8 hours per week studying for Green School and labs.

A: The agreements and policies, clarify the scope and expectations of our Program. WSU Extension and local counties invest in volunteers and in return, volunteers invest in WSU Extension and in local communities. It is important to clearly define expectations so current and interested volunteers have the information they need to determine if being a WSU volunteer is a good fit. WSU Extension values the time and talents of volunteers and commits to doing our best to make the volunteer experience productive and rewarding.

A: What do Extension Master Gardener volunteers educate the community on? Our Program Priorities inform our efforts.

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.

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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.