What is a Master Gardener?

Abstract

For those of us who embrace digging holes, weeding, and watering, the Master Gardener program offered through the University of Minnesota Extension Service provides amateur horticulturists a way to learn, teach, and engage the community in gardening. Master Gardeners come from all walks of life and share gardening best practices that promote healthy landscapes, healthy foods and healthy lives. This article is an introduction to master gardening, with a brief history of the national and local programs, description of the steps toward becoming a Master Gardener, and a sampling of local Minnesota county activities.