Master Gardeners are University of Minnesota-trained volunteers whose job is to educate the public about a variety of horticulture subjects using readily-available, up-to-date research-based information. This educational effort is designed to enhance the public's quality of life and to promote good stewardship of the environment.
]]> *please visit our Have a Question? page if you are looking for an answer to a gardening-related question.]]>A love of gardening, a search for knowledge and a desire to share that knowledge with others is central to why people join the Master Gardener program. They remain Master Gardeners to enjoy the friendship of others who share their interests, to gain and share research-based horticultural knowledge and to give back to the community through their volunteer commitment.
If combining your passion for people and plants sounds appealing, you may be a good Master Gardener candidate. A formal education in horticulture isn’t necessary—we will provide the training and resources to help you teach others. There are five steps to becoming a Master Gardener – each step is described in more detail below.
To become a University of Minnesota Master Gardener in Aitkin County, you must first apply and be accepted into the program. The application process starts early – we begin sending out applications in August. You can request an application form by e-mailing your contact information to Brad Irwin or by calling 218-927-2538.
Commitment
You agree to volunteer service in exchange for training from the University of Minnesota. You also agree to participate in Master Gardener meetings in your County, where you receive continuing education and learn about new projects and other volunteer opportunities.
Training
Training is held once each year in the metropolitan area in January and February. Master Gardeners attend a 48-hour class at the University of Minnesota known as the "Core Course" or Horticulture 1003 if taken for U of M credit. The course is taught by Extension faculty, and a textbook and mini-reference library are provided to each participant. For more information about the Core Course training, including times, locations, fees, and specific course content, visit the Minnesota Master Gardener page.
Internship
Following completion of Core Course Training, Master Gardener interns are required to do 50 hours of volunteer work and 8 hours of continuing education during their internship year (which ends December 31). We make an effort to ensure that our new interns are placed with other, more seasoned volunteers and we assign a mentor to each new intern. So whether you volunteer at an “Ask a Master Gardener� event, the Diagnostic Clinic or another event, you’ll be with knowledgeable, helpful people who will make sure you’re not on your own. You’ll have fun—and you will learn a lot!
Certification
You’ll receive a certificate and name badge designating you as a Master Gardener once you have completed the Core Course and fulfilled your internship requirements.
Remaining Certified
Once certified, Master Gardeners in Aitkin County must volunteer a minimum of 25 hours and receive at least 12 hours of approved continuing education each year in order to maintain their certification.
Advanced Training
After you are certified, you are eligible to attend other training programs and workshops. These courses offer more technical information. Advanced training opportunities include:
By phone call the Master Gardener Helpline at 218-927-7370 or 218-927-2538, then press 5. Leave a detailed message. We'll research your question and returen your call with information within 24-48 hours.
Visit us at an 'Ask a Master Gardener' information booth. Our booth schedule is:
Email your question, and even send a digital photo, to Extension's online 'Ask an Expert' at: www1.extension.umn.edu/garden/ask/
You can also research on your own with diagnostic tools and publications on the University of Minnesota Extension garden website at: www1.extension.umn.edu/garden/
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