The Penn State University Master Gardener program was established to assist Cooperative Extension in reaching the consumer horticulture audience.
The Penn State Master Gardener volunteer program supports the outreach mission of Penn State Extension by utilizing unbiased research-based information to educate the public and our communities on best practices in sustainable horticulture and environmental stewardship.
Master Gardener volunteers support Penn State Extension's educational programs in consumer horticulture. They develop their horticultural expertise through participation in educational training classes conducted by Penn State University faculty and Extension staff.
A Penn State Master Gardener not only learns research-based and sustainable horticultural practices, but also develops life-long friendships with others who have similar gardening interests.
After completing their training, Master Gardeners help Extension better serve the home gardening public by answering questions, speaking to groups, writing gardening articles, working with youth, gardening in the demonstration gardens, participating in the Penn State pollinator research program, and in many other ways.
