The Penn State Master Gardener volunteer program supports the outreach mission of Penn State Extension by sharing unbiased research-based information to educate the public and our communities. We focus on sustainable horticulture and environmental stewardship.
Master Gardener soil and plant clinic at John Rudy Park Open House
The Master Gardener Program provides those with an interest and passion for horticulture and environmental stewardship with training on a variety of horticulture topics led by Penn State and Extension educators, with the goal at the end of training for Master Gardeners to share what they have learned with the community through a variety of community education projects. Basic Training coursework runs October - March, and includes 45 hours of virtual and in-person classes. In their initial year Master Gardeners volunteer 50 hours, and make a commitment to volunteer at least 20 hours in subequent years.
The statewide program requires that you apply in the county in which you live and the Master Gardener training is $275. The next York County Master Gardener Basic Training will start in the fall of 2027. For more information and to have your name added to the list to receive information when the next training dates are announced, contact Lauren Eriksen, Master Gardener Coordinator for York County at lje5279@psu.edu.
