2024 NC State Extension Master Gardener℠ Program Registration Is Open

(Updated: Oct. 23, 2024, 5:11 a.m.)
Register Here for the 2024 Course

Should I become a Master Gardener℠ volunteer?


To help you decide if you should apply to become an NC State Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteer, ask yourself these questions:
  • Do I want to learn more about the care and management of many types of plants?
  • Am I eager to participate in a practical and intense training program?
  • Do I look forward to sharing my knowledge with people in my community?
  • Do I have enough time to attend training sessions and to serve as a volunteer?
If you answered yes to these questions, the NC State Extension Master Gardener (EMG) program could be for you! Volunteer Training If accepted into the EMG program in Catawba County, you will attend a 36 hour training course. Classes are taught by Extension staff, local experts, and Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteers. The program offers a minimum of 36 hours of instruction on horticulture topics including lawns; ornamental trees and shrubs; insect, disease, and weed management; soils and plant nutrition; vegetable gardening; home fruit production; garden flowers; houseplants; and landscape design. During your first year as an EMG volunteer, you will complete 40 hours of volunteer work in projects of your choice. Each additional year you wish to remain an EMG volunteer you will volunteer 20 hours. There is a wide variety of projects that you can participate in with other EMG volunteers or you can create a new project.

Read more on the NC State Master Gardener℠ volunteer program in Catawba County webpage