Thank you for your interest in our program. OSU Master Gardeners are experienced gardeners who want to learn more about growing plants. Master Gardeners receive extensive training through OSU Extension. In exchange, they volunteer their knowledge and expertise to the public. View the details below for the Master Gardener program.

 

Who Can Become an OSU Master Gardener?

Individuals residing in Creek County with an interest in both gardening and volunteer service are potential candidates for the program. No previous formal training is necessary.

 

Why Should I Become an OSU Master Gardener?

Volunteering with the OSU MG program will help you become knowledgeable about a wide array of gardening subjects. The training to become a OSU Master Gardener is designed to:

• increase your confidence and horticultural skills
• enable you to help the public with questions and problems involved with gardening
• help you contribute to your community
• give you the pleasure and reward of working with others who share your interests

 

OSU Master Gardeners receive advanced training classes and participate in field trips related to the program. The learning process and the opportunity for gaining knowledge never end.

 

Is the OSU Master Gardener Program for You?

To help you decide if you should apply to be an OSU Master Gardener, ask yourself these questions.

• Do I want to learn more about the culture and maintenance 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 and to serve as a volunteer?

 

If you answered yes to these questions, the Master Gardener program could be for you.

 

Training

If accepted into the OSU Master Gardener program in your county, you will attend an OSU Master Gardener training course. OSU Extension professionals teach these classes held at the Creek County OSU Extension Office. Please note that attendance is mandatory. Virtual attendance via Zoom can be an option. The cost of the week of training is $150, due by date set on application.

The training program provides 40 hours of instruction and covers topics including lawns, ornamental trees and shrubs, insect, disease and weed management, soils and plant nutrition, vegetable gardening, home fruit production, flowers, and water conservation. Trainees will receive an OSU Master Gardener Manual of comprehensive horticulture subjects at completion of the training. Manuals will be loaded on a USB flash drive. Please advise if you will need a printed copy of the manual.

 

Volunteer Commitment

After successfully completing the training program, a volunteer internship year will begin. Certified OSU Master Gardener trainees agree to donate 40 hours of volunteer time to the program during their first year. Volunteer hours help MGs gain additional knowledge about plants and experience working with the community. After the initial year of internship, Master Gardeners are required to complete 30 hours of volunteer service annually, along with 20 hours of continued education.

What Types of Volunteer Activities Exist?

The opportunities for volunteer service are limitless. Examples include:

• Diagnosing plant, insect, and disease problems
• Attending and/or contributing to plant clinics, educational exhibits and lectures on garden topics
• Maintaining a demonstration or community garden
• Introducing gardening to senior citizens and/or young children
• Working the Creek County Fair horticulture and flower exhibits
• Volunteering at various service projects in our community

 

OSU Master Gardeners are representatives of OSU Extension and follow research-based recommendations. The title OSU Master Gardener can be used by volunteers only when engaged in approved activities and may not be used for financial gain or for commercial credentials, recommendations or endorsements. Volunteers must pass a background check which is included in the registration fee.