Master Gardener Volunteer Educators
Become a Master Gardener
The next Delaware Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Statewide Training Program for residents living in New Castle, Kent or Sussex counties is planned for Fall 2027. Classes are held twice a week on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.to 12:30 p.m from September through November.
As a member of the Delaware Master Gardener training class, you are expected
to:
- Complete the course of study,
- Volunteer 40 hours and,
- Gain an additional 5 hours of advanced training by the defined deadline.
- If you are accepted into the training class, the training fee is $175, and a University of Delaware background check is required. Selected applicants will be notified by the County Coordinator (by phone and email).
Contact
Extension Educator, Delaware State University, Master Gardener coordinator for Kent County
Kent County applicants:
For more information, please contact Megan Pleasanton, shown above.
Contact
Extension Agent, Horticulture, Master Gardener coordinator for New Castle County
New Castle County Applicants:
For more information, please contact Carrie Murphy, shown above.
Contact
Extension Agent, Horticulture, Master Gardener coordinator for Sussex County
Sussex County Applicants:
For more information, please contact Tracy Wootten, shown above.
What volunteering could I do if I work full-time?
We have several Master Gardeners who work full-time and still find ways to volunteer for projects. There are many volunteer opportunities for evenings and weekends. There are even some activities that you may be able to do from home. Projects also have clerical, administrative, or reporting components that Master Gardeners do at the times that are most convenient for them.
What do Master Gardeners do together for fun?
Volunteering is not all work— we do manage to schedule trips, socialize, and host or participate in other special events.
What technical support will I have after I become a Master Gardener?
Extension Educators whom you meet during training, as well as Extension Specialists in our colleges, we provide educational resources and information and are valuable resources to Master Gardeners. The Horticulture Educators (Master Gardener Coordinator) organize training and continue to provide daily support and guidance.
Selection Process
How are the class members chosen?
It is the policy of Delaware Cooperative Extension that no person shall be subject to discrimination based on race, color, sex, age, disability, or national origin. The selection committee weighs a candidate’s experience, skills, and desire to commit to volunteer educational service against Cooperative Extension’s programmatic and organizational goals and needs.
What is the cost of the training program?
There are specific costs per county (see application). A limited number of need-based scholarships are available. Contact the Horticulture Educator in your county for more information.
Course Content and Evaluation
Will I do OK if I’ve never taken a gardening course before?
It is normal to be a little anxious about being in “class,” especially if it has been a while since you were in school. Nearly all our trainees, however, go through training without a hitch. It just takes commitment to reading and doing the homework, participating in class discussions and projects, and asking for help or clarification when you need it.
Who are the instructors?
Delaware Cooperative Extension professionals, University of Delaware and Delaware State University faculty, community educators, and Master Gardener volunteers participate in training. A diverse curriculum and set of instructors deliver a wide range of horticultural topics. A complete curriculum and class schedule will be made available online and in the classroom on the first day of training.
How hard is the material to learn?
Some material may be review, and some may be unfamiliar. Again, keeping up with assigned readings and homework and asking questions will help make things as easy and rewarding as possible throughout the training program. You will have take-home exams to help us gauge your understanding and application of the material we cover.
Are there commitments outside of the formal classroom training?
Yes. In addition to formal training on Mondays and Wednesdays, there may be additional commitments outside the formal training schedule. This will consist of working with experienced Master Gardeners in providing educational programs and services. You will be provided with a list of required tasks for each assignment; this may include learning how to prepare handouts, assembling materials, using equipment, completing reports, etc.
Training Logistics
Where are classes held?
Most of the classes will be held in person but we also use Zoom. Some classes will be held in other locations with your peers from the other counties. When will classes meet? Classes will meet Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:00am. to 12:30pm from September to November.
What if I am sick or away and cannot make classes?
Of course, illness and other last minute obligations do happen. One or two sessions missed will not set you back. However, you must arrange for class material with the Horticulture Educator and copies of class notes and assignments from your classmates. Absences due to pre-planned trips, medical procedures, or other business exceeding two sessions will, however, become problematic. If you expect to miss more than two sessions, you should notify the Horticulture Educator, or train another year.