What is the WSU Master Gardener Program?
WSU
Master Gardener Program's Official
History (pdf) 
The WSU Master Gardener Program is a public service program that provides university training to volunteers for the purpose of enabling them to serve their communities through horticulture, gardening and pest management.
The first Master Gardener Program was initiated in the State of Washington in 1973 by Extension agents in response to a burgeoning interest in horticulture from citizens in the urban areas. The Program's objective was to train volunteers to help Extension meet the overwhelming demand for information on horticulture, gardening and plant problems. Volunteers participated in a series of science-based educational sessions that included many aspects of horticulture and related topics. Then, in return for this training, they assisted local Extension personnel in providing information and education. Today there are Master Gardener Programs affiliated with most land-grant universities throughout the United States.
Today's WSU Master Gardener volunteers continue to join Extension educators in sharing their knowledge of and enthusiasm for gardening to meet crucial needs within their state and their local communities. WSU Master Gardener volunteers make it their mission to educate local community members in applying horticultural science to manage their landscapes and gardens in a science-based, sustainable manner. They address environmental and social priorities such as water conservation, the protection of water quality, reducing the impact of invasive species, increasing public awareness of the value of home and public landscapes and the opportunities for healthy living through gardening. They use gardening classes to teach children environmental stewardship and proper nutrition. Many WSU Master Gardener volunteers give public lectures, seminars or workshops while others write horticultural articles or host radio or TV programs. Some participate with the court system in offering horticulture training as a part of juvenile rehabilitation while others provide enabling gardens and horticulture therapy for seniors. They also enhance communities through their numerous demonstration gardens and donate produce to local food banks. In some communities, low-income citizens learn to grow their own food and become more self-sufficient with the help of WSU Master Gardeners. Whatever the priority need may be, if it can be addressed through gardening, WSU Master Gardener volunteers are there to serve as part of the solution.
The WSU Master Gardener Program is open to everyone with an interest in gardening and a willingness to use their knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to make a positive impact on their local community. Contact the local Extension office in your county for details on how to become involved in the Master Gardener Program.
If you are looking for a way to expand your gardening knowledge, serve your community and continue your personal growth, we hope you will consider supporting this premier program of Washington State University through your participation and/or financial donation.
WSU
Master Gardener Volunteers:
Cultivating Plants, People, and Communities Since 1973
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