Master Gardener Volunteer Course Begins January 2026

Do you love gardening, want to sharpen your skills, or enjoy connecting with folks who share your passion for plants? The UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener volunteer (MG) course is a fun and rewarding way to grow your knowledge and give back to your community.

Class Details
Levy Extension Center, 625 North Hathaway Avenue, Bronson
Thursdays, January 29 – April 16, 2026
⏰ 9:00 a.m. – noon

This once-a-week course offers a well-rounded mix of lectures, online presentations, videos, and hands-on activities. You’ll dive into topics like fertilization, smart watering, pesticide options, picking the right fruits and veggies, and designing low-maintenance landscapes—all tailored to the unique challenges of gardening in North Florida.

Whether you’re brand new to gardening, new to the area, or an experienced grower looking to deepen your skills, you’ll walk away with practical knowledge you can use in your home garden or in community projects.

Why Become a Master Gardener Volunteer?

MGs make a real impact—beautifying public spaces, sharing research-based gardening options with residents, and helping promote sustainable practices. After completing the course, volunteers contribute 75 hours of service to earn full MG certification.

What You Need to Know

Background screening: University of Florida’s level 1 background check is required, at no expense to you.
Internet access: Needed for online materials.
Class size: Limited to 20 participants—first come, first served!
Accessibility: UF is committed to universal access. Contact Barbara L. Edmonds at savemygarden@ufl.edu or 352-486-5131 at least one week in advance for sign-language interpreters, listening devices, or other accommodations.
Fee: $124 non-refundable materials fee (cash, check, or money order payable to University of Florida, MEMO: Master Gardener).
Deadline to pay: January 8, 2026
Apply: Request an application at savemygarden@ufl.edu or pick one up at the Levy County Extension office (625 North Hathaway Avenue, Bronson, 32621).

Extension programs and services are open to all without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, or handicap.