Registration for the 2024 Master Gardener Training Class is now closed; the next class will be held February-May in 2025, when classes will be offered every Tuesday from 12pm-3pm. Continue reading to find out about the program and how to join when the time comes. If you would like to be contacted when registration opens for the next training class, fill out the form below.
The Texas Master Gardener Program is open to all people regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion or national origin. It is a volunteer program designed to train volunteers that help the Texas A&M AgrilLife Extension Service provide public education in horticulture and related areas. To become a certified Master Gardener you must:
- Complete the process to join the Master Gardener Training Course as outlined below
- Attend all classes/hours in the scheduled course (around 50 hours total)
- Contribute and report 50 hours of approved volunteer service within the 12 months following the completion of the course.
Allison Schwarz, Tom Green County AgriLife Horticulturist and coordinator for the Concho Valley Master Gardeners Association, offers The Master Gardener Training Class once a year, generally on Tuesdays from February through May.
To join the training course:
- Apply online when the application system opens up in December
- Once approved to proceed, follow email instructions to complete a volunteer training module from AgriLife Learn (costs $12)
- Follow the instructions sent via email from Sterling Volunteers to complete the background check (the $12 is to cover this background check)
- Sign and return a copy of the Volunteer Agreement
- Pay class tuition – $225 for the 2025 class
- The class schedule will be sent with a registration confirmation letter
To maintain status as a certified Master Gardener from year to year (after the initial certification) you must:
- Pay annual dues (currently $10)
- Contribute 20 volunteer hours per year
- Participate in 10 continuing education hours per year
- Complete a new background check every three years
If you have further questions or would like to sign up to be on the training class waiting list, please use this form:
Request information about becoming a master gardener