How Do I Become an EMG?

The 50-hour (minimum) required training program provides research-based information on a variety of horticultural and environmental topics. Training sessions are offered annually. Preregistration is required. Contact your local VCE office for more information.

Extension Master Gardener training involves a variety of topics, including:

  • Botany
  • Soils & fertilizer
  • Entomology (insects)
  • Propagation
  • Vegetables
  • Fruits
  • Turf
  • Woody plants
  • Herbaceous plants
  • Water quality
  • Pruning
  • Plant pathology (diseases)
  • Plant damage (diagnosis)
  • Pesticides
  • Landscape design

By completing the classroom instruction, you become a Master Gardener Intern. The title of VCE Master Gardener is granted after you complete a minimum of 50 hours of volunteer service conducting horticultural education programs.

To complete annual recertification you must:

  • Contribute at least 20 hours of volunteer service each year.
  • Participate in at least 8 hours of continuing education.
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© Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Program 2018
Virginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia State University, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture cooperating. Edwin J. Jones, Director, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg; M. Ray McKinnie, Administrator, 1890 Extension Program, Virginia State University, Petersburg.