To become certified as a Extension Master Gardener (EMG) in Vermont, you must complete two tasks. The first is our twelve week EMG Course, which covers the fundamentals of home gardening and the plant and soil sciences. The second task is to complete a volunteer internship where you put the knowledge you learn in the classroom to work on community projects.
Faculty from the University of Vermont and Vermont horticulture professionals will teach you the basics of plant science and best practices for a sustainable home landscape. You will learn about soils and soil fertility, plant pests and disease management, fruit and vegetable production, healthy lawn management, annual and perennial culture, caring for shrubs and trees, introduction to landscape design, and invasive pest and plant control. This training is adapted to local needs and the Vermont environment.
Following completion of the course, in order to earn certification, students are required to volunteer at least 40 hours in approved projects established by your Chapter and/or the MG State office. Interns must work under the direction of their local Extension Master Gardener Chapter. Any exceptions must be approved by the State Director BEFORE volunteer hours are accrued. Hours earned without prior approval will not be considered towards certification. As a Extension Master Gardener Intern, you might staff educational exhibits at local events and libraries, conduct a workshop in your community, write a column for your local paper, or volunteer on established MG garden projects. The program coordinator will coach and support your efforts. How you use your time most effectively is a joint decision between you and your coordinator.
Becoming certified is the beginning of many great opportunities for Extension Master Gardener members. As a Extension Master Gardener, you will be eligible to attend member only events such as; private garden tours, advanced horticulture lectures, hands-on workshops, and MG community projects in your local MG chapter. These activities are a great way to spend time with fellow horticulture enthusiasts while expanding your gardening education!
To help you decide if you should apply for Master Gardener training, ask yourself the following questions:
If you answered yes to these questions, the Extension Master Gardener Program may be for you! Please check out our EMG Course.