Master Gardener

The Master Gardener course is a volunteer training program, not a general gardening class. It is designed for individuals who wish to become certified volunteers with Missoula County Extension and serve as an educational resource in our community. Master Gardeners act as an extension of Extension’s horticulture programs by sharing research-based gardening information with the public.

2026 Master Gardener Training Details

Dates: April 7, 14, 21, 28; May 5, 12, 19, 26; and June 2, 2026

Day & Time: Tuesday evenings, 6:00–8:30 p.m.

Location:
The Exploration Center
1075 South Ave W
Missoula, MT

The training runs 9 weeks, with weekly classes lasting approximately 2.5 hours. Participants receive instruction from Extension staff and local experts on a wide range of gardening topics relevant to Montana. Cost is $250 includes book and lab supplies

Topics
Introduction to the Master Gardener Program / Volunteer opportunities
Gardening in Western Montana Climates
Natives & Pollinators
Plant Sciences & Botany Basics
Soil Health, Fertility, & Nutrients
Compost, Weeds & Wildlife
Vegetables
Annual & Perennial Flowers
Integrated Pest Management / Plant Clinic
Ornamental Tree Care: Planting, Maintenance & Pruning
Fruit and Berry Production

Upon completion of the course, participants are required to complete 20 hours of approved volunteer service to earn Master Gardener certification.

To maintain certification in subsequent years, Master Gardeners complete:

20 hours of volunteer service annually, and4 hours of continuing education each year.

Volunteer opportunities are diverse and community-focused and may include:

Supporting school and youth gardens

Giving gardening presentations to community groups

Staffing the Extension plant clinic

Tabling at events such as the Clark Fork River Market and the Western Montana Fair

Assisting with demonstration gardens and other Extension horticulture programs!

Becoming a Master Gardener is a meaningful commitment, but it is also a rewarding way to build skills, connect with others, and give back to the community. We have a strong and welcoming Master Gardener community and look forward to growing our connections through service and gardening.

If you are primarily interested in learning about gardening in Montana but do not wish to commit to volunteer service, we encourage you to explore our public classes and workshops offered throughout the year. These can be found on our calendar of events at missoulaeduplace.org.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions as you consider whether the Master Gardener Program is right for you. We appreciate your interest and hope to connect with you soon.

Warm regards,

Sarah Holden
Horticulture Extension Agent
Missoula County Extension
406-258-4205
sholden@missoulacounty.us