Program Overview

Introduction to the Master Gardener Program

The Master Gardener program is designed for home gardeners who want to broaden and solidify their knowledge across a spectrum of gardening topics, while also giving back to their community. The courses in this program follow a hands-on approach to sharing Newfoundland-specific knowledge on predominantly ornamental gardening.

Program Requirements

To obtain the Master Gardener certification, students must complete all required courses, plus 25 hours of approved volunteer service. Students must complete these requirements within four years to be eligible for certification. Once certification is obtained, Master Gardeners need to complete 25 hours of volunteer service and 4 hours of continuing education per year to remain in good standing.

Guidelines for Volunteer Hours

Master Gardeners are required to complete 25 hours of approved volunteer service. Each student is required to keep track of their own volunteer hours, including the dates, description of the event, and hours logged.

Required Courses

The following courses are required to complete the Master Gardener certification:

• Plant Identification - 4 sessions
• Soils
• Botany for Gardeners
• Lawn Care 101
• Container Gardening or Succulent Dish Garden
• Practical Skills for Home Gardeners - 2 sessions
• Plant Nutrition
• Pests and Diseases
• Growing Fruit in Newfoundland
• Vegetable Gardening in Raised beds
• Practical Pruning
• Weeds 101
• Plant Propagation
• Composting

Program Details

• The program is designed to be completed within a 4-year period, starting from the completion of the first course.
• Each course is priced individually, and a graduation fee is required upon completion of the program requirements to gain the certificate.
• The courses and workshops are in-person only, and there are no online options available.
• Anyone can take the workshops, even if they are not interested in the Master Gardener program.

Frequently Asked Questions

• If a course was completed within the last 2 years and is on the required course list, it can count towards the Master Gardener certification.
• The cost of the program varies, as each course is priced individually, and there is a graduation fee.
• The time it takes to complete the program depends on the individual's schedule, but it must be completed within 4 years.
• There are no online courses available; all courses and workshops are in-person only.