Join the 2025 Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program!

I am delighted to announce registration is open for the 2025 Master Gardener Volunteer training program! If you’re a Sarasota County resident, this is your chance to expand your horticultural knowledge, engage in meaningful community service, and connect with like-minded gardening enthusiasts right here in your own community. Imagine being part of a passionate group dedicated to sustainable gardening practices and environmental stewardship. Whether you’re looking to enhance your gardening skills, give back to your community, or simply meet new friends who share your love for plants, this program is your gateway to making a lasting impact in Sarasota County.

People standing looking at plants — Master Gardener Volunteers learning about common weeds and management strategies, prepared by retired Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM educator, Wilma Holley.

Training Details

Start Date: February 27th
Graduation: May 29th
Duration: Approximately 14 weeks
Location: UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Twin Lakes Office, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota
- Note: Some classes will be held off-site at Sarasota County Parks
Class Hours: Every Thursday from 9 AM to 4 PM

people outside learning about composting — Master Gardener Volunteers learning about various composting methods from UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County’s Waste Reduction Agent, Randall Penn.

Program Highlights

In-person training with program experts in Florida-Friendly Landscaping™, botany, plant pathology, integrated pest management, soil science, plant nutrients and fertilizers, plant propagation, invasive plants, and more.
Becoming part of a passionate group of volunteers.
Opportunities to make lasting contributions to our community.
Field trips to demonstration gardens, natural areas and community gardens.

Master Gardeners at Plant Clinic — Master Gardener Volunteers at the UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota Plant Clinic exchanging seeds.

Volunteer Activities Include

Supporting Plant Clinics
Maintaining demonstration gardens
Assisting with plant propagation and the annual plant sale
Presenting to community groups
Helping with UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension events and programs

Information Sessions

We have three upcoming information sessions where you can learn more about the program (attendance is optional but encouraged):

August 6th @ 10 AM – UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Twin Lakes Office (Register Here)
September 10th @ 10 AM – UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Twin Lakes Office (Register Here)
September 26th @ 4 PM – Shamrock Park and Nature Center (Register Here)

Secure Your Spot

If you haven’t already, please register by following this link no later than October 1st to be considered for next year’s class.

We are excited about the possibility of you joining our passionate community of Master Gardener Volunteers. This program is a fantastic way to deepen your horticultural knowledge, contribute to the community, and connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to seeing you at the information sessions and hopefully welcoming you to the 2025 Master Gardener Volunteer training program!.

MGVs at Lemon Bay — Master Gardener Volunteers learn about mangroves from UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County’s Sea Grant Agent Armando Ubeda at Lemon Bay Environmental Park as part of the 2024 Master Gardener Volunteer training program.

For more information and to register, please visit our website or contact us at 941-861-9900.

UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County is an Equal Opportunity Institution.