The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program is a volunteer program for people with a passion for plants, a drive to learn, and a commitment to serve.
Candidates for the program may have very little experience or knowledge about horticulture or they may have a lot, but all have a desire to learn. By signing up to join the program, you are committing to serving the community as a gardening/horticulture educator.
The Master Gardener training combines three “modalities,” following the curriculum of Washington Green School. You will access online lectures and readings at your own pace plus participate in live discussion sessions via Zoom (online) and attend in-person activities with everyone in the Clark County group.
Interns commit to weekly study, completing chapter quizzes, viewing on-line content, and completing a final exam, as well as other short take-home assignments. In order to certify as a Master Gardener, interns must pass the quizzes and exam with an 80% or higher grade.
Master Gardener Training
Dates: Through Washington Green School, online on your own schedule, from October 1, 2025 through February 28, 2026. In-person sessions will be on Wednesdays with breaks around holidays. The draft in-person schedule is as follows:
Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29,
Nov. 5, 12 and 19,
Dec. 3 and 17,
Jan 14 and
Feb. 11
9:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the dates above.
Fee: $275 — payable to WSU. Study materials are included. (Limited tuition assistance is available. Information will be available on the application form.)
Interns must submit a national background check through Sterling Volunteers at a cost of $15, paid by the applicant.
Location: Locations for in-person sessions in Clark County will vary. For most people, none is more than a half-hour drive from their home or workplace.
Time and Equipment Needs: You will need regular access to a computer or tablet. The training “modalities” include online reading and listening, so you will need access to the internet. A computer will be best for these because some content will be text to read. If this is a concern for you, please consider visiting a branch of the Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries. If that poses a challenge, please contact Erika Johnson (telephone (564) 397-5738 or email erika.d.johnson@wsu.edu)
For the discussion sessions, you’ll need access to Zoom (a free application) and the internet. A smartphone with internet access will work for these.
Interested? See the next steps: Please apply only if you know you can complete online coursework and participate in the on-site activities on Wednesday mornings.