Skip to main content
HomeGeneral Info Become a Master Gardener (Copy)

Becoming a Master Gardener

2022_Class_Recruitment_2_.jpg

Hampshire, Hampden, Franklin, and Berkshire County residents who are passionate about gardening, interested in learning environmentally sound gardening practices, and sharing the information with the public can apply to join the Western Massachusetts Master Gardener Association’s Master Gardener training program.


Whether you're a homeowner, apartment/condo dweller, or work at a garden center & or nursery, completing the WMMGA Master Gardener training program will give you a set of skills to help you better understand the land, plants and insects around you. Most importantly you'll share that knowledge as a WMMGA Master Gardener volunteer on any of the 50+ gardening projects WMMGA manages throughout the four Western Massachusetts counties. 


Our next training class will begin in 2027. Watch our Events Calendar for a list of upcoming Meet & Greet events which will be held throughout Western Massachusetts in June, July & August of 2026 You'll be able to meet current Master Gardeners and ask questions about the program.

Training Class Topics

 

WMMGA training class topics include the essentials of botany, soil, composting, fertilizers, integrated pest management, vegetables, lawns, native plants, invasive plants, pollinators, weeds, fruit, and insects.

Class instructors are experienced botanists, horticulturists, farmers, and landscapers who are qualified to teach the latest concepts in sustainable gardening.

Already a Master Gardener?
We welcome Transfers!

 

Certified Master Gardeners moving to Berkshire, Franklin, Hampshire, or Hampden Counties in Massachusetts can transfer their membership to the Western Massachusetts Master Gardener Association (WMMGA). We also welcome lapsed WMMGA members who would like to rejoin.

 

Click here to read our Transfers and Lapsed Members policy. 

Who Can Become a Master Gardener?

 

We welcome all types of lifelong learners! You need an enthusiasm for science and the natural world, the ability to complete our 14-week training class, and a commitment to volunteering in our region.

The Springfield Museums Thank the Master Gardeners



In this video, the Springfield Museums highlight the wonderful work by our volunteer Master Gardeners. Interviews with Master Gardeners Janet Dolder, Carol Hegeman, and Beate Bolan.

Search


©2025 Western Massachusetts Master Gardener Association