Iowans wishing to become Master Gardener volunteers choose a county to complete training through, participate in online learning modules, and attend at least four in-person training sessions organized by the county office. After passing the final exam, trainees put their knowledge to work with a 40-hour internship in their training county. Applicants have from January 13 to February 14 to apply for the spring session. Learn more about the program online or contact the Washington County Extension Office at 319-653-4811 to register. Iowa State has offered Master Gardener training for over 40 years, engaging more than 15,000 people in learning about gardening best practices.

The Iowa Master Gardener program is part of an international network of Master Gardener programs started in 1973 in Washington State. The Master Gardener title is given to volunteers in exchange for their service in communities, sharing gardening best practices. Volunteers receive initial broad-based horticulture training, ongoing support, resources, and education from their county coordinator and state staff. Master Gardeners share their time and expertise as volunteers in community gardens, city beautification projects, and farmers markets, among other activities.