Foundations of Gardening/Master Gardener Program

The Michigan State University Extension Master Gardener Program is an adult horticulture education and volunteer leader training program. Volunteers are committed to improving the quality of life in Michigan through horticulture-based volunteerism and beautifying communities throughout the state.  Beginning in 2023, the journey to becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer was updated and upon completion of two educational modules and 40 hours of volunteer service, participants will receive their Extension Master Gardener certification.

The MSU Extension Master Gardener Program serves two major and equal functions:

• To provide instruction in basic, research-based horticulture science to motivated and active gardeners through an adult (18 years or older) educational program offered through MSU Extension.
• To provide MSU Extension with trained gardeners who will educate others in the community about environmentally and economically sound practices through horticulture-based volunteer activities.

Foundations of Gardening (FOG) is a comprehensive 10-week online course offered by MSU Extension. It is open to all adults interested in the science behind successful gardening. It is also the prerequisite for applying to the MSU Extension Master Gardener (EMG) Volunteer Program.

Participants who wish to join the EMG program can apply after earning their FOG certificate. Earning a FOG certificate does not guarantee acceptance into the EMG program, and the timeline for volunteer application steps may vary by county.

The MSU Extension Master Gardener trainee’s commitment to volunteering is equally as important as the educational component of the course. Trainees have the chance to educate and inspire others in their communities through horticulture activities. Volunteer tasks may include everything from designing an elementary school garden with children, to creating a horticulture therapy program at a senior center, to helping a neighborhood beautification team with site and plant selection. Upon completion of the educational component and 40 hours of volunteer service in Michigan, the Extension Master Gardener trainee will receive their Extension Master Gardener certification.

Maintaining MSU Extension Master Gardener volunteer status requires completing a minimum of 20 hours of community service in the state of Michigan, and 10 hours of education each year.