The 2026 UC Master Gardener Training application process is now closed. We anticipate opening it again in 2027 for another class in 2028. To be on our interest list, please fill out our form by following this link: https://surveys.ucanr.edu/survey.cfm?surveynumber=35723 this will also add you to our newsletter, The Stanislaus Sprout. It comes out monthly with information regarding classes, workshops and gardening and pest management information.

What is the UC Master Gardener Program?
The program was created in the 1980's to help extend research from the University to the public. Our program is a part of University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) and is run locally through UC Cooperative Extension offices (UCCE) in counties throughout the state.

Master Gardeners are community members trained through UC to extend research-based information on gardening, pest management, and sustainable landscaping. 

What is expected of me if I become a UCCE Master Gardener?
First year Master Gardeners contribute 50 volunteer hours the first year. After the first year, 25 volunteer hours plus 12 hours of continuing education are needed to continue participation in the program.

Approved volunteer opportunities available for UCCE Master Gardeners include:

• Teaching classes to the public in a variety of locations.
• Attending community events such as the County Fair, farmers markets and more.
• Diagnosing pest problems on our Help Line or at the Help Desk.
• Helping maintain our Pollinator, Sensory, Edible, and Cut Flower Demonstration Gardens.
• Behind-the-scenes work such as setting up for events or workshops, helping with administrative work, photography, writing for our blog, or helping with social media.

When and How Long is the Training?
The training lasts for 18 weeks and starts in January. Classes are approximately 4 1/2 hours long, including lecture, hands-on activity, and of course, a potluck! Program requirements include weekly reading and quizzes and a final take home exam. Graduates receive a certificate. 

Who teaches the classes and what will I learn?
Classes are taught by University experts using research-based information. 

 Training Class Topics Include:

• Introduction to horticulture and plant identification
• Soils and fertilizers
• Water management
• Low water use plants
• Plant identification
• Composting and vermicomposting
• Landscape tree pruning and care
• Plant propagation
• Introduction to insects
• Home vegetable gardening
• Plant disease diagnosis
• Integrated pest management
• Weed identification and management
• Fruit and nut tree care
• Volunteerism
• Diagnosing garden and landscape problems

History of the UC Master Gardener Program

Since 1980, the University of California Master Gardener Program has been extending UC research-based information about home horticulture and pest management to the public. The program is a public service and outreach program partnership under the University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, administered locally by participating UC Cooperative Extension County offices such as Stanislaus County. These two organizations come together to provide information and funding to create the program. This program wouldn't be possible without the dedication of community members that volunteer. 

In exchange for being trained by the University, UC Master Gardeners offer volunteer services and outreach to the public on pest management and gardening in more than 50 California counties. In 2019, 6,116 active UC Master Gardener volunteers donated 398,265 hours, and 5.4+ million hours have been donated since the program's inception.

Updated 9/9/2025