Becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer:

New cohorts of Master Gardener Volunteers are trained yearly in the Fall. The recruitment process is competitive and rigorous due to limited class sizes each year. The qualifications and requirements are:

• Are a resident of Orange County.
• Trainings will take place once a week over a 16-week period. Candidates must be available throughout the duration of the fall semester.
• Trainings are on Tuesdays from 10 am-3 pm and rotate between the Orange County office (6021 S. Conway Rd., Orlando, FL 32812) and Osceola County office (921 Kissimmee Valley Ln, Kissimmee, FL 34744).
• Only 1 excused absence will be accepted during the training period.
• Volunteer 75 hours in the following calendar year after course completion, including 1 Plant Clinic shift a month.
• Submit an application (applications open in the summer).
• Attend an interview with the Master Gardener Coordinator.  
• Pass a Florida Criminal Background Check.
• Provide 3 references.
• Submit non-refundable payment of $180 (to cover enrollment + supplies; subject to change) after acceptance into the program.
• Have internet access and a valid email address.
• Open-minded to sharing research-based horticulture.
• No formal or prior horticulture experience required!

To be added to the mailing list for information on the next recruitment season, please click here. 

For more information, please e-mail the Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator.