The Texas Master Gardener Program is a volunteer development program of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Master Gardener volunteers receive in-depth horticultural training. In return, they provide volunteer service through AgriLife Extension by delivering horticultural education to their communities. Program participants should be able to communicate with the public by telephone, personal contact, as a speaker, or through written correspondence. Master Gardener volunteers serve as “horticultural docents” supervised by AgriLife Extension personnel who assign, review and facilitate volunteer work.

Step 1: To gain the title of Master Gardener Intern, a Trainee must: (1) receive a minimum of fifty (50) hours of instruction and (2) pass an examination. The volunteer aspect of the Master Gardener program allows individuals to dedicate their time and talents to educate and enhance their local community by utilizing the science and art of horticulture.

Step 2: Master Gardener Interns (1) must give 50 hours of volunteer service in AgriLife Extension-initiated projects in Johnson County within one year of their training date and (2) will be certified as a Master Gardener when all requirements are met.