The Clemson Extension Master Gardener Program is a volunteer training program administered by the Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service. Introduced in Charleston County in 1981, the Master Gardener program is now offered over most of the state.
The mission of the Clemson Extension Master Gardener Program is to select, train, and utilize knowledgeable volunteers to facilitate the educational work of the local Consumer Horticulture Agent, by delivering research-based information to citizens of the state.
The Master Gardener program is divided into two parts: Instruction and Service. In the first part, participants receive at least 40 hours of intensive, practical horticultural training. The following topics are typically covered in the program:
Soils and Plant Nutrition
Botany and Plant Physiology
Basic Plant Pathology
Physiology
Entomology
Vegetable Gardening
Tree and Small Fruit Culture
Culture of Woody Ornamentals
Lawn Management
Basic Landscape Design
Problem Solving
After successfully completing the classroom portion, which involves regular attendance and passing a final exam, participants receive the title of "Master Gardener Intern". These interns are then required to volunteer at least 40 hours of educational service in the Clemson Extension office or in the community to become a Certified Clemson Extension Master Gardener. Volunteer activities are coordinated through the local county Extension office. The Master Gardener program in Greenville County is coordinated by Mary Vargo, Horticulture Extension Agent. Here is additional information from Clemson regarding the program.
A limited number of financial need-based scholarships are available from the Greater Greenville Master Gardener Association.
Location and Time of Next Class: Historically there has been a training class in the fall each year. Currently many things are in transition. If you would like to put your name on a list to get information about when the next class will be offered, complete this form.