Join Us
Do you want to help others while learning more about gardening, insects, and the environment? If so, the VCE Extension MasterGardener (EMG) program might be for you!
As a volunteer, you’ll meet others that share your interests, learn more about gardening, and help our area’s residents by volunteering in the community.
Next EMG Training
Volunteering begins with training, which usually starts in early fall. Please complete our interest form to let us know what schedule works best for you. We plan each class to accommodate the schedules of as many of those interested as we can.
The schedule is released by April 1. Subscribe to our email list to receive it right in your inbox when it’s available, keep an eye on our Facebook page, or check out our planned training schedule.
Step One to Becoming an EMG – Learning
Becoming an EMG is a two-part process that begins with 50+ hours of class training, where you’ll learn about a wide range of horticulture topics. Get a headstart on the reading with the Virginia Cooperative Extension Gardener Handbook, available as a free download.
Classes may include lectures, hands-on fieldwork, and at-home learning. Presenters are VCE faculty and staff, university professors, industry experts, and experienced Master Gardeners who will teach you how to find research-based sources and interpret information to educate home gardeners.
Step Two to Becoming an EMG – Practicing
The second part of becoming an EMG is a 50-hour internship where you’ll volunteer beside experienced volunteers as you practice and apply what you’ve learned in the community in a variety of service projects, including:
● Therapeutic gardening programs that help youth and seniors,
● Community help desks that research garden questions,
● Youth programs that use hands-on activities to teach,
● Rain barrel workshops that work to reduce water runoff,
● Seed Libraries that improve access to fresh food,
● Demonstration gardens that share gardening practices around the city.
Volunteering
Once you complete your training and internship, you’re certified as an Extension Master Gardener. You’ll stay an active volunteer by contributing at least 20 hours annually in VCE MG projects that interest you and by keeping yourself up on new developments in horticulture through 8 hours of continuing education.
Contact us at SuffolkMG@gmail.com if you have any questions or would like to become a Suffolk VCE Master Gardener!
