The Impact of the 2025–26 Washington Gardener Certificate Course
We’re excited to announce the second annual offering of the Washington Gardener Certificate—our once‑a‑year opportunity for gardeners nationwide to gain foundational, science‑based horticulture training. Registration opens August 17 for the 2026–27 course, and we invite anyone interested in strengthening their gardening knowledge or exploring the WSU Extension Master Gardener volunteer pathway to visit the Washington Green School website for details.
The 2025–26 Washington Gardener Certificate course marked a milestone year for horticulture education in our state. More than 800 gardeners earned their Washington Gardener Certificate in 2026, demonstrating a growing commitment to research‑based, climate‑aware gardening practices across Washington.
Participants came from all regions—and from a wide range of gardening backgrounds—to strengthen their foundational horticulture knowledge, learn sustainable techniques, and better understand how their gardening choices influence local ecosystems. The course’s flexible online format, expert‑led instruction, and practical assignments helped learners apply what they were learning directly to their own landscapes.
Graduates consistently shared how meaningful the experience was:
“I wanted to thank you for a great and very educational program… The course was taught by excellent and knowledgeable faculty. The program was well organized; the content was comprehensive.” — Karen, Class of 2026
“I truly appreciate the thoughtful effort you and the team put into developing such high‑quality training materials. It made a meaningful difference.” — Mary Ann, Class of 2026
These reflections highlight why the Washington Gardener Certificate has such a meaningful impact: it offers accessible, science‑based education that builds confidence and supports environmentally responsible gardening. It’s also the foundational horticulture course that all WSU Extension Master Gardener volunteers must successfully complete as part of their training.