Every spring and fall, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s Master Gardener Volunteer Program conducts a certification course for new volunteers. Registration is now open through December 11 for the 2027 spring course, which is open to anyone aged 19 or older. The course classes will run from January 21 through April 29.
From experienced gardeners to those just discovering a love of plants, the Master Gardener Volunteer Program offers participants an opportunity to learn, serve and grow.
“We welcome everybody,” said Kerry Smith, Alabama Extension Master Gardener Program coordinator. “Do you love plants? Do you enjoy learning? Are you looking for a passionate volunteer group to join? If you’re thinking yes, then Extension Master Gardener is right for you.”
A Hybrid Program
To receive an Extension Master Gardener certification, participants must complete the 14-week training course and log a minimum of 50 Extension volunteer hours. This is a hybrid course that requires both face-to-face and online participation.
This course equips volunteers with reliable, research-based gardening information in support of Extension’s mission to educate Alabama residents. The course includes research-based gardening information on topics such as home lawns, trees, shrubs, annual and perennial flowers, and vegetable gardening.
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Face-to-face sessions for the 2027 spring course will be hosted in the following counties: Baldwin, Clarke, Calhoun (or Cleburne), Coffee, DeKalb, Houston, Jefferson, Lauderdale, Madison, Montgomery, Tuscaloosa, and Walker. Residents of other counties can register and participate in the spring course. However, they are required to travel to a host county. For more information regarding class times and specific locations, contact the nearest county Extension office hosting a training.
A Passion for Service
Smith said participants often build lasting friendships while sharing their passion for gardening through service and educational outreach. Once certified, volunteers support Extension agents and educational initiatives across the state, from Lunch & Learns to container garden workshops.
“Volunteers might help home gardeners find research-based answers to their questions, or volunteer in community projects, like teaching gardens, school gardens, or civic beautification projects,” Smith said. “It’s the perfect way to mix someone’s plant passion with community volunteering.”
More Information
To register for the Extension Master Gardener spring course, apply online at www.aces.edu/go/mgapply.
No time for the Extension Master Gardener course, but still interested in learning more about home gardening? Consider the sister course, Garden-U, which is self-paced and has no volunteer requirement.
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