Training If accepted into the Master Gardener program, you will attend a Master Gardener training course. Classes are taught by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension specialists, agents, and local experts. The program offers 72 hours of instruction that covers topics including lawn care, ornamental trees and shrubs, insect, disease, and weed management; soils and plant nutrition, vegetable gardening; home fruit production; garden flowers; and water conservation. The training for Rockwall County is held from August through November.
Volunteer Commitment In exchange for training, participants are asked to volunteer time to their County Extension program. At least 72 hours of volunteer service within one year following the training is required to earn the title of “Texas Extension Master Gardener.” The type of service done by Master Gardeners varies according to community needs, and the abilities and interests of the Master Gardeners. Some Master Gardeners answer telephone requests for information related to gardening. Others assist with plant clinics or classes in the community. Master Gardeners may speak to local groups and conduct workshops. They may help establish community garden projects, work with youth, or assist their agent with news releases and newsletters related to gardening. The Master Gardener Coordinator in the County Extension office decides how volunteer time can be best utilized. Master Gardeners are representatives of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, The Texas A&M University System. In all volunteer work related to the program, Master Gardeners follow the research-based recommendations of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. The title “Texas Extension Master Gardener” can be used by volunteers only when engaged in Extension-sponsored activities.
Certification Participants become certified Extension Master Gardeners after they have completed the training course and fulfilled their volunteer commitment.
Is the Master Gardener Program for Me? To help you decide if you should apply to be a Master Gardener, ask yourself these questions:
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- Do I want to learn more about the culture and maintenance of many types of plants?
- Am I eager to participate in a practical and intense training program?
- Do I look forward to sharing my knowledge with people in my community?
- Do I have enough time to attend training and to complete the volunteer service?
If you answered yes to these questions, the Master Gardener program could be for you.
Interested in becoming a Rockwall County Extension Master Gardener?
Applications are currently closed and will open again in May 2026.
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