Loudoun County Master Gardeners

Home

Go Native!

Seasonal Alerts

Got Plant or Pest Questions?

Visit our Demo Garden

Gardening Information

Need a Speaker?

Upcoming Events

Become a Master Gardener

Favorite Gardening Links

Photo Album

Contact Us

MG Log-in

The Loudoun County Master Gardener Volunteer Program

This page describes the program and the process for becoming a master gardener.  It addresses:

What Is It

The Loudoun County Master Gardener Volunteer Program mission is to develop volunteer educators who provide the public with gardening information that draws on the horticultural research and experience of Virginia Tech and Virginia State University.  The program is conducted through the local unit office of Virginia Cooperative Extension - the Loudoun County Extension Office at 30-B Catoctin Circle, SE in Leesburg,

Master Gardener Volunteers…

  • Answer horticulture and environmental questions at their helpline office located in the Loudoun County Extension Office and at local community functions.

  • Promote safe use of pesticides and fertilizers to protect water quality and the environment.

  • Maintain an organic Demonstration and Teaching Garden at Ida Lee Park.

  • Instruct neighbors and groups on proper care of lawns, trees, shrubs, flowers, fruits, and vegetables.

  • Conduct gardening programs for diverse groups within the community.

Who Should Apply?

Individuals should possess two attributes for acceptance into the program.

  1. A willingness to give back to the community through volunteer efforts.

  2. An enthusiasm for learning the fundamental aspects of gardening.

A strong background in gardening – though helpful- is not necessary. 

How To Apply?

Prospective candidates should complete and submit the 2013 Application Form.  Take advantage of the Early Bird Special and apply by November 1 for a discounted price.  For more information contact training@loudouncountymastergardeners.org. 

An Applicant Open House will be held on November 8 at 7PM at the Extension Office.

Interviews will be conducted in late November and early December, 2012.

How Are Prospective Volunteers Selected?

Applicants are invited to interview with Master Gardener Volunteers and Loudoun County Extension Office staff at the Loudoun County Extension Office usually in late November.  After completion of applicant interviews, a panel of Master Gardener Volunteers and Loudoun County Extension Office staff select Applicants based on an evaluation of their enthusiasm to learn, their willingness to volunteer and contribute to the Master Gardener program, and their interest in gardening.  Successful Applicants are admitted as Trainees. 

What Are The Training Requirements?

Trainees must complete classroom lectures, labs, and demonstrations plus a number of field trips totaling at least 60 hours.  The classes are conducted twice weekly for a period of 10 weeks. February through April.  At present, classroom training is only available during the workday.  Upon successful completion of the class work, Trainees graduate to become Interns.  

What Are The Internship Requirements For Attaining Master Gardener Status?

Interns must complete at least 75 hours of internship during their first year.  The 75 hour commitment breaks down into the following requirement categories:

  • 25 hours of service on the Loudoun County Master Gardener Volunteer Helpline and at plant clinics.

  • 25 hours of service at the Demonstration and Teaching Garden at Ida Lee Park.

  • 25 hours of other services, such as participation on committees and supporting special events.

Interns are trained for their volunteer activities and are paired with experienced Master Gardeners for those activities.  Interns have one year to satisfy the 75-hour requirement.  At the end of that year and upon completion of the 75 hours at stated above, Interns are certified as a Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteer.

What are the Requirements for Maintaining Master Gardener Status?

In order to maintain Master Gardener status volunteers must complete every year:

  • 25 volunteer hours

  • 8 hours continuing education