University of Vermont (UVM) Extension is now accepting registrations for its 2027 Master Gardener course, offering gardeners the opportunity to deepen their knowledge of science-based home horticulture.
Designed for all experience levels, the course explores a wide range of gardening topics, including soil health, basic botany, vegetable gardening, fruit production, ornamental plants, integrated pest management, pollinator-friendly landscapes, and more. Learning is delivered online, making it accessible to gardeners throughout Vermont and beyond.
The 16-week course begins Jan. 15, 2027. Fees are $400 for Vermont residents and $550 for out-of-state students, due before the registration deadline of Jan. 8, 2027. The required course manual is not included in the registration fee and must be purchased or obtained separately. Financial assistance is available through VSAC and AmeriCorps, and a limited number of scholarships are available.
Detailed course information and registration instructions are available on the program’s website (go.uvm.edu/emgcourse).
Students can choose between two options. Track 1: Volunteer Certification includes live Thursday evening Zoom sessions and a pathway to becoming a certified UVM Extension Master Gardener volunteer in Vermont. Track 2: Gardening Education at Your Own Pace is for personal or professional enrichment, without a volunteer commitment. Track 2 is also intended for students who live out-of-state.
Many participants who completed the Master Gardener course in 2026 noted how glad they were that they did it.
One said: “Taking the EMG course was on my bucket list for many years and quite honestly, I was completely intimidated to even sign up. Once I took the leap, I was so happy that I did! The entire experience exceeded my expectations. The course was incredibly informative and each week was like a new treasure trove of new and interesting information.”
Another said: "The UVM EMG Course has been an invaluable way to understand the space I live in — my state, my town, my own garden — in ways both fascinating and important. I'm so excited to apply this new knowledge to my own gardening, as well as to be able to help educate others in my community about so many vital aspects of sustainable gardening — from pollinator plants to IPM, and everything in between."
From first-time gardeners to seasoned growers, the UVM Extension Master Gardener course provides an opportunity to learn from trusted experts, connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts, and prepare for a successful growing season.
To request disability-related accommodations to participate, or to ask questions about the course, please contact Deb Heleba at debra.heleba@uvm.edu.
The UVM Extension Master Gardener program provides science-based gardening education to Vermonters. The program is made possible through the support of dedicated volunteers, state and federal funding, and generous donations. Want to get involved? Learn more on the UVM Extension Master Gardener website.
