The MSU Extension Master Gardener Program is a volunteer leader training program made of individuals enthusiastic about gardening. The Master Gardener Program in Wayne County is one of the largest and most active in the state of Michigan. Master Gardeners are a positive force in Wayne County typically donating over 20,000 volunteer hours a year in wide variety of horticulture and natural resource projects - and have fun while improving our quality of life.
The MSU Extension Master Gardener Program connects gardeners across the state to MSU‘s faculty and resources. Participants have access to information generated at one of the nation’s top plant science teaching and research universities and the change to use this knowledge to improve their communities and enrich their lives.
Master Gardener volunteers start by completing a 14-session practical curriculum grounded in university research. This training consists of approximately 40 hours of training with classes on plant science, soil science, integrated pest management, diagnostics, annuals and perennials, woody ornamentals, lawns, vegetables, small fruits, tree fruits, household and nuisance pests and gardening practices to protect water quality. Participants must commit to attend all the training sessions and complete all quizzes and the final (open book) exam with an overall score of at least 80%. Missed classes may be made up in other locations or through viewing recorded sessions.
After completing the training, Master Gardener trainees must complete and report 40 hours of horticulture-related service within one year to earn their Master Gardener certification. Through these volunteer activities educating others, trainees extend their classroom knowledge to their community. Volunteer projects and service may include:
Working with students to design an elementary school garden
Creating a horticulture therapy program at a senior center.
Helping a neighborhood association create an urban garden.
Staffing plant clinics.
Designing and caring for gardens at senior centers, parks and other public sites.
Teaching others how to garden.
Establishing vegetable gardens to meet local nutritional needs.
Sharing environmentally-friendly gardening practices at community events.
Beautifying community sites for special events or community activities that attract local residents and tourists.
Upon certification, maintain your MSU Extension Master Gardener (EMG) volunteer status by:
Completing and reporting annually at least 20 hours of community service and 10 hours of education.
Completing a 3-step re-certification process.
To complete the 3-step re-certification process, please log into the VMS and click on the "Complete Agreement Now" box at the top of the home screen.
MSU Extension Wayne County Coordinator Contact Information