Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program

Cornell Cooperative Extension in Warren County is now accepting applications for the 2026 Master Gardener Training Program.
Space is limited, so contact Linden Pearsall at the Extension office soon for more information and an application. Through the Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program, our Master Gardeners are taught research-based best practices and information related to various gardening topics. From insects to lawn care - Master Gardeners do not just seek to learn but to educate their fellow community members on all things horticulture. At the heart of this program is the volunteer work the Master Gardeners do within their communities. Master Gardeners in Warren County have contributed over 40,000 hours to their community since the program's inception in 2008.

What do Master Gardener Volunteers do?
Master Gardener volunteers research and answer horticulture questions submitted by community members, design and maintain educational demonstration gardens and projects, write articles about gardening, provide horticulture programs to school groups and the public, staff a farmers market booth, speak to small public groups, and develop and run community improvement projects. Monthly Master Gardener meetings are relaxed and allow for the sharing of ideas, continued training, and interesting tours and outings to local gardens, woodlands, preservation sites, and other areas.

What is involved in becoming a Master Gardener?
After acceptance and enrollment in the course, the participants are provided with a Master Gardener Manual, which supplements the weekly presentations from Cornell University faculty, Cooperative Extension staff, and local experts on a wide range of horticultural topics. The topics include basic botany, entomology, soils, home lawn care, vegetable and fruit gardening, composting, organic gardening, and other practical and interesting subject matter. Hands-on training opportunities will be provided as well. After passing an open-book written exam and presenting on a horticulture-related topic of their choosing, Master Gardener trainees are required to volunteer 55 hours in the first calendar after certification. After that, they are required to volunteer 30 hours per year to maintain an active status in the program.

How would becoming a Master Gardener benefit me?
Along with becoming a more knowledgeable gardener, you will have the opportunity to attend Master Gardener workshops around the state, as well as regional and national conferences. You will also be surrounded by individuals of all backgrounds who share your interest in gardening. Master Gardeners also have field trips, training classes, and other events for educational purposes. The largest benefit of participating in the program is knowing that you are a community resource and actively contributing to the well-being of your community and its residents.

2026 Training Course Information:
Course Dates and Times: January 21st 2026 - April 9th 2026. Tuesdays (Zoom) 5PM-7:30PM, Thursdays (in-person) 5PM-7:30PM, and three Saturday sessions (in-person) 8AM-1pm.

Location: Online via Zoom and in Person at the 4-H Training Center in Ballston Spa.

Price: $175 per person