UME Calvert Master Gardener Training Spring 2025

What is a Master Gardener?

A Master Gardener (MG) is a trained volunteer

• who has an interest in gardening.
• who wants to help others garden successfully.
• who has been trained by University of Maryland Extension specialists.
• who continues to acquire gardening knowledge by participating in advanced training classes.

How are Master Gardeners trained?

• Training classes are conducted online by University of Maryland Extension specialists, educators, and other horticultural professionals.
• Topics covered: Botany, Composting, Plant Diseases, Entomology, Weeds, Vegetable Gardening, Soils & Fertilizers, Herbaceous and Woody Perennials, and other subjects of horticultural interest.
• The schedule is Tuesdays, February 4th to May 6th 6-9 pm virtually, there are in-person components as well

Fee/Other Information

• The cost is $225.00. This pays for a Maryland Master Gardener Handbook ($69 value) and other materials and costs needed to teach and administer the program at the county and state level.
• In addition to the class, an application must be completed before acceptance as a Maryland Master Gardener Intern. MG Interns must provide 40 hours of volunteer service to the program within 12 months to become certified as a MG Volunteer. To stay in compliance with state MG guidelines, volunteers are required to complete 20 hours of volunteering and 10 hours of advanced training per year.
• A short interview will be scheduled for each prospective MG Volunteer either by telephone or at the Extension Office in Prince Frederick. Three references will be required, along with a commercial criminal background check the fee of which is $15 at a later date.

Event Venue

Online