Master Gardener Program

Florida Master Gardeners are University of Florida-trained volunteer teachers. Master Gardeners educate and provide research-based information to Floridians about gardening -- America's most popular pastime. Their information about planning and maintaining urban, suburban, and rural landscapes always emphasizes environmental stewardship. Since 1979, Florida Master Gardeners have promoted wise use of natural resources at extension offices, over the telephone and in seminars, plant clinics, workshops, and recently through use of CD-ROM computer-generated publications. In a single year, more than 1,600 Florida Master Gardeners donated over 125,000 hours teaching citizens how to create and maintain sustainable plant and landscape communities.

Master Gardeners Teach & Learn

• Safe and efficient use of chemicals and fertilizers
• Correct selection and placement of plant materials for energy and water conservation
• Mulching and composting practices that reduce, reuse and recycle yard trash
• Use of plant materials to attract desirable wildlife.

Master Gardeners promote environmental awareness. They empower people to do their part in maintaining sustainable plant communities that protect the environment and conserve water and energy. Is Master Gardening for you?

To help you decide if you should apply for Florida Master Gardener training, ask yourself these questions:

• Do I want to learn about plants, growing things, and gardening?
• Am I eager to participate in a practical and intensive training program?
• Do I look forward to sharing my knowledge with people in my community?
• Do I have enough time to attend the training and to complete my volunteer work?

If you answered yes to these questions, the Master Gardener Program could be for you.

What is the Master Gardener Program?

The Master Gardener Program provides gardeners with intensive education in home horticulture principles. Participants who complete the program are certified as Master Gardeners by the Florida Extension Service.

Working with the Extension Agent, Master Gardeners provide volunteer leadership and service to their community in gardening activities. As a Master Gardener you will work with the Extension program and have the opportunity to participate in organized volunteer activities. This service consists of such things as answering gardening questions, conducting plant clinics, beautifying the community, and other activities which promote horticulture. In Florida, where the program began in 1979, there are now over 35 counties with active Master Gardeners.

The Master Gardeners are a part of the Extension Service of the University of Florida.

The Master Gardeners Class is held each year at the Bay County Extension Office. You need to check the local Newspaper for an announcement telling you that it is time to register for the Master Gardeners Class or this web page. To register for the class you must complete a Sprout Kit and return it to the Extension office. To find out more about the Bay County Master Gardeners contact Mr. Rudisill, KRRudisill@ifas.ufl.edu or call the Extension office at 850/784-6105. If you have questions concerning your lawn, garden, flowers, etc. Please contact the Bay County Master Gardeners at BayMG@ifas.ufl.edu. Let us be of service to you.

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