We are recruiting for the 2026 UC Master Gardener Training Program! Apply before the deadline on August 31, 2025 at: https://ucanr.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ef9F0e2HNypD6aG
Note about the Application Survey
Thoughtfully filling out the application may take 20 minutes or more. Scroll down to the bottom of this page to see the questions* before you apply.
Technical Difficulties?
Trouble filling out the form? Your cell phone or tablet may not work with the survey. We suggest using a laptop or desktop computer. If you need assistance, please contact our office at (209) 525-6800.
FAQs or Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve filled out an application, what happens next?
In September you'll receive an email inviting you to sign up for one of our (mandatory) informational meetings in person or online.
Why is the informational meeting mandatory?
During the meeting, you’ll meet our Coordinator and Master Gardener Volunteers. You’ll hear a 45-minute presentation about the program, its impacts on the community and decide if becoming a volunteer is right for you. At the end of the meeting, you’ll have an opportunity to sign up for an informal interview.
Interview?
Yes, we conduct informal interviews in October that last less than 10 minutes. This helps us get to know you better and answers any other questions you may have.
What happens after interviews?
Acceptance letters are sent out in late October, along with fingerprinting forms and a list of locations. The cost averages $25.
When is the payment for the class due?
Payment is due by November 30.
What is the cost?
The cost is $200, which includes books, speaker gifts, speaker mileage, and, upon completion of the program, a vest and badge.
Do you offer scholarships?
Yes, some partial scholarships are available based on need. Hear more about how to apply for one upon acceptance into the program.
When do classes start?
Classes are held weekly January-May, starting on a Thursday, from 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. If you need exact dates to ask for time off, please contact Anne at (209) 525-6800 for more information.
**What if I don’t receive an email about the informational meetings?
If you don’t hear anything by mid-September, please contact our office at (209) 525-6800 or ucmgstanislaus@ucanr.edu and ask for Anne Schellman.
I can't apply this time, but I'm interested. What should I do?
Sign up for our interest list to be contacted when our next program starts. Projected start date is January 2028, with recruitment in summer of 2027. https://surveys.ucanr.edu/survey.cfm?surveynumber=35723
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What is the UC Master Gardener Program?
The program was created in the 1980's to help extend research from the University to the public. Our program is a part of University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) and is run locally through UC Cooperative Extension offices (UCCE) in counties throughout the state.
Master Gardeners are community members trained through UC to extend research-based information on gardening, pest management, and sustainable landscaping.
What is expected of me if I become a UCCE Master Gardener?
First year Master Gardeners contribute 50 volunteer hours the first year. After the first year, 25 volunteer hours plus 12 hours of continuing education are needed to continue participation in the program.
Approved volunteer opportunities available for UCCE Master Gardeners include:
- Teaching classes to the public in a variety of locations.
- Attending community events such as the County Fair, farmers markets and more.
- Diagnosing pest problems on our Help Line or at the Help Desk.
- Helping maintain our Pollinator, Sensory, Edible, and Cut Flower Demonstration Gardens.
- Behind-the-scenes work such as setting up for events or workshops, helping with administrative work, photography, writing for our blog, or helping with social media.
When and How Long is the Training?
The training lasts for 18 weeks and starts in January. Classes are approximately 4 1/2 hours long, including lecture, hands-on activity, and of course, a potluck! Program requirements include weekly reading and quizzes and a final take home exam. Graduates receive a certificate.
Who teaches the classes and what will I learn?
Classes are taught by University experts using research-based information.
Training Class Topics Include:
- Introduction to horticulture and plant identification
- Soils and fertilizers
- Water management
- Low water use plants
- Plant identification
- Composting and vermicomposting
- Landscape tree pruning and care
- Plant propagation
- Introduction to insects
- Home vegetable gardening
- Plant disease diagnosis
- Integrated pest management
- Weed identification and management
- Fruit and nut tree care
- Volunteerism
- Diagnosing garden and landscape problems
History of the UC Master Gardener Program
Since 1980, the University of California Master Gardener Program has been extending UC research-based information about home horticulture and pest management to the public. The program is a public service and outreach program partnership under the University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, administered locally by participating UC Cooperative Extension County offices such as Stanislaus County. These two organizations come together to provide information and funding to create the program. This program wouldn't be possible without the dedication of community members that volunteer.
In exchange for being trained by the University, UC Master Gardeners offer volunteer services and outreach to the public on pest management and gardening in more than 50 California counties. In 2019, 6,116 active UC Master Gardener volunteers donated 398,265 hours, and 5.4+ million hours have been donated since the program's inception.
Updated 6/13/2025
*UC Master Gardener Program application questions
- What excites you about becoming a UC Master Gardener?
- Volunteering is the heart of our program! Tell us about your volunteer experience, including what groups or activities you've been involved with.
- The UC Master Gardener Program works to reach all Californians. Have you done any work—personally or professionally—to help make a space or organization more inclusive? Feel free to share an example.
- How would you describe your gardening skill level?
- I'm a beginner, I'm looking forward to learning more.
- I have been gardening for 5–10 years.
- I've gardened a long time, but there is always an opportunity to learn more!
- There are many opportunities to volunteer with our program. Which of the following (mark all that apply) appeal to you?
- Staffing a booth at a farmers market or local event
- Writing articles for our newsletter, The Stanislaus Sprout
- Hands-on garden work (weeding, planting, signage)
- Teaching adults (e.g., library or community classes)
- Teaching students (e.g., school gardens)
- Answering gardening questions (in person, phone, email)
- Growing plants at home for a plant sale
- Organizing or helping at hands-on workshops
- Do you have experience with public speaking, giving demonstrations, one-on-one teaching, writing articles, or using outreach tools like Constant Contact?
Please list. If none, write N/A. - Please share any other skills you’d like to offer the program. (Examples: languages spoken, graphic design, IT, photography, social media, crafts, woodworking, etc.)