MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEER TRAINING
Registration is open for the 2026 Foundations in Gardening course!
The University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension Master Gardener Program supports a network of individuals, known as Master Gardeners, dedicated to horticulture education, service, and lifelong learning. Through University research-based horticulture training, Master Gardeners are equipped to address needs and opportunities in their community and throughout the state.
Training is Required to Become a Wisconsin Master Gardener
Individuals interested in becoming a Wisconsin Master Gardener need to participate in a learning opportunity - Growing and Caring for Plants in Wisconsin: Foundations in Gardening. This is a statewide online course that occurs annually from September through December. Registration opens in July each year. This approved learning opportunity is led by Extension Horticulture staff and subject matter experts. This online, self-paced course focuses on objectives and topics covered in the Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program Onboarding exam.
The second part to becoming a Wisconsin Master Gardener is to complete the online Onboarding course, which introduces you to the requirements of the Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program. The course takes place in February and March each year. As part of the course, participants must pass the horticulture entrance exam, which requires a score of 70% or better.
You don’t need to know everything about gardening to become a Master Gardener — you’ll continue to learn the more you participate in the program. You do need to be committed to lifelong learning and community service, as these are the cornerstones of the Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program.
To learn more about the Growing and Caring for Plants in Wisconsin: Foundations in Gardening course please visit Wisconsin Horticulture Division of Extension.
If you are interested in receiving information about the Master Gardener Program and course, Growing and Caring for Plants in Wisconsin: Foundations in Gardening please subscribe HERE.
For specific information about the Dodge County Master Gardener Association, contact dcwimg@gmail.com
