Maricopa County Master Gardener Training

The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension trains gardening enthusiasts of Maricopa County as Master Gardener Volunteers who help their fellow citizens grow better gardens and more sustainable landscapes.

 

The Master Gardener Volunteer training is provided twice a year, a Spring session starting in January and a Fall session starting in July.

The application period for the Fall course is closed.

Next session: Spring 2022

Orientation week:  January 10, 2022

Class Dates: January 17 to May 13, 2022

 

Applications Available:  September 1 to October 29, 2021

(a link to the online application will be posted here September 1, 2021)

Notification of Acceptance: November 4, 2021

Tuition: $275.00 payment is due in full by November 23, 2021

Location: Course location is online anywhere with an internet connection, usually in the convenience of the home

A computer or tablet and internet service is required for this online course.

 

Who Should Apply to be a Maricopa County Master Gardener Volunteer?

Anyone with an interest in environmentally responsible landscaping and gardening in the low desert AND a desire to teach those principles and skills in their community from research-based materials is a candidate for the Master Gardener program.

Acceptance into the Course

There are routinely more qualified applicants for the program than available positions. Many successful applicants have applied more than once.

• Selection is not based on your application date, but rather a demonstrated willingness to volunteer in the community.
• Agreement to uphold the program mission, its policies, and participation in the University of Arizona's Designated Campus Colleague (DCC) system are all required for acceptance into the program.

Asynchronous Course Format:

Using University of Arizona’s education resources, the Master Gardener Training Course is delivered through Desire 2 Learn, an online classroom.

• Students engage in the training from their home assisted by University of Arizona staff and Master Gardener Volunteers.
• A weekly live Zoom meeting will provide opportunity for questions and personal interaction. Trainees will be organized into small groups to create meaningful online interaction preparing them for volunteering in their community.
• The University of Arizona’s research-based training material will give students a rich educational experience in home gardening and landscaping.

Course and Weekly Time Requirements:

• 6 hours approximately of weekly study time, reading and videos, at the convenience of your schedule.
• 1 hour weekly live Zoom meetings with your assigned small group and Master Gardener Mentor.
• 20 hours of volunteer service over the course.

Course Overview:

Master Gardener Training classes are taught by University of Arizona Cooperative Extension faculty, industry professionals and other horticulture experts. Students will learn the fundamentals of selecting, installing, and maintaining healthy, appropriate landscapes and gardens for the Arizona low desert. The course fee covers the books and materials.

Class Topics Delivered Weekly