Interested in becoming a Marathon County Master Gardener?

The Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program supports a network of individuals dedicated to horticulture education, service, and lifelong learning. Through university research-based horticulture training, they are equipped to address needs and opportunities in their community and throughout the state.

Master Gardeners are motivated individuals who use gardening and horticulture education to make a difference in their communities. The Master Gardener Program provides plant-related continuing education opportunities for participants to grow their gardening know-how. Local organizations benefit from the garden-related volunteer activities and education provided by Master Gardeners.

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.

#1. Participate in an approved learning opportunity

To be a successful Master Gardener, you need foundational knowledge about growing and caring for plants in Wisconsin. Extension offers a comprehensive online gardening course to prepare individuals for the Master Gardener Program.

This course, Growing and Caring for Plants in Wisconsin: Foundations in Gardening, 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. It focuses on objectives and topics covered in the Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program Onboarding exam.

#2. Complete the Master Gardener Onboarding course.

The online Onboarding course 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.

As a Master Gardener you apply your knowledge and skills educating others and conducting horticulture-related volunteer activities at local organizations. Volunteer service and continuing education are required to be completed and reported each year. Your involvement will lead to an increase in knowledge and skill in yourself and those you reach. You will use your knowledge of plants to improve the lives of others and the community you live in. This, ultimately, will lead to a bigger change in the world around us.

Transferring from another state?
If you are a Master Gardener who has relocated to Wisconsin from another state, or if you are rejoining the program after a period of inactivity, contact wimastergardener@extension.wisc.edu to learn your specific program requirements.