What is the Master Gardener Program?             

Working with county Extension personnel, Master Gardeners provide such educational services to their communities as: answering gardening questions from the public; conducting plant clinics; gardening activities with children, senior citizens or disabled persons; beautifying the community; developing community or demonstration gardens; and other horticulture activities.

How do I know if I’d make a good Master Gardener?

You could qualify to become a Master Gardener, if:

How do I become a Master Gardener?

To become a Master Gardener, you must:

• Complete an application and return it to the Warren County Extension office by the application deadline.  Application Form

• Be accepted into the Master Gardener program by completing the volunteer application. Please note that the class size is limited. Trainees will be selected based upon their application and their availability and willingness to complete their training and volunteer requirements.
• Complete the formal training provided by The Ohio State University Extension. The training is approximately 50 hours and participants must pass all quizzes and examinations with a cumulative average of 70% or better.
• Complete 50 hours of volunteer time on projects pre-approved by the Master Gardener coordinator. This volunteer time must be finished within one calendar year after their formal training.

Is there a cost for the training?

Yes, there is a cost to help defray the costs for the training manual and speaker’s expenses. Cost for the 2012 Warren County Master Gardener program is $250. Note: $100 will be reimbursed if you complete your 50 hours of required community service by December 31, 2013.

When is the next training?              

The next training will begin September 5, 2012. The classes will be held on the following dates: September 5, 12, & 26 and October 3, 10, 17, 24 &31. The class runs from 8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The training will be held in our Warren County office at 320 E. Silver Street, Lebanon, Ohio.

If you have any questions contact Nancy McLaughlin at 513.695.1311 or mclaughlin.192@cfaes.osu.edu

If I already received my training in another county or state, can I now join the Warren County Master Gardener Association?

Yes, if you are a member in good standing with another state or county association, you can switch your membership to Warren County’s Association.

How do I continue on as an active Master Gardener?

To stay active, you must do the following every year:

• Pay your local association dues.
• Complete 15 hours of volunteer time on pre-approved Master Gardener projects.
• Complete 6 hours of pre-approved training in horticulture. Training opportunities will be provided locally, but are also available at state and national conferences.