Becoming a Master Gardener
Once you complete the course, you have the option to go on and become a Master Gardener. Note that this is optional and not a requirement when you complete the course.
What is a Master Gardener and what do they do?
Master Gardeners combine a passion for gardening and the dedication to share their knowledge with the community. As part of an international, non-profit organization, all Master Gardeners are volunteers and offer their knowledge in many venues. To become a Master Gardener, you first qualify to be a Master Gardener in Training (MGIT) and then become qualified as a Master Gardener, following a period of further education and volunteering.
Qualification as a Master Gardener in Training (MGIT)
- Attendance (80% of classes)
- Assignments (complete a minimum of 80%)
- Final open book exam (minimum grade of 80%)
Qualifications to become a certified Master Gardener
Volunteer hours are the cornerstone of certification. In the first 24 months after completing the basic training course, MGITs complete a minimum of 60 hours of volunteer hours in such activities as gardening events, seminars, fairs, plant sales, nursery clinics, workshops, demonstrations, community projects, research and writing and fundraising events. Once certification has been obtained, the number of clinic hours /year is reduced. In addition to volunteer hours, members attend regular meetings and commit to on-going education.
A full description of the program can be found at http://mgabc.org/content/14-become-master-gardener/
Visit the Victoria Master Gardener Association website for more information – https://www.mgabc.org/content/victoria.