Program Overview

• Annual VCE training opportunity for gardeners of all skill levels  

• Fee: $160 (includes digital Virginia Extension Master Gardener Handbook)  

• Hands-on experience in demonstration gardens and community projects  

• Covers in-depth topics from botany to landscape design  

• Pathway to becoming a Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteer 

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Training Structure

Classroom Sessions  
Our 2026 classroom schedule runs January 13th through part of April. Students meet:  
Tuesdays, 9:30 am–12:30 pm in Goochland (Goochland Extension Building, 2748 Dogtown Rd)  
Thursdays, 9:30 am–12:30 pm in Powhatan (Powhatan County Public Library, 2270 Mann Rd)  

 

Internship & Graduation  

• Complete 50 classroom hours to earn EMG Intern status  

• Serve a minimum of 50 volunteer hours on approved projects — you’ll choose from a list of local opportunities (this follows the classroom sessions mentioned above)

• Upon completion, receive a graduate certificate as a VCE Master Gardener Volunteer (this title will be carried as long as you remain an active Master Gardener). Students have till the end of 2026 to complete required hours.

• Graduation ceremony will be held January 2027.

 

Topics Covered in Sustainable Landscape Management:

- Botany  
- Soils & Fertilizer  
- Entomology (Insects)  
- Propagation  
- Vegetables, Fruits, & Turf  
- Woody & Herbaceous Plants  
- Water Quality & Pruning  
- Plant Pathology & Damage Diagnosis  
- Pesticides & Landscape Design  
- Gardening for Wildlife  

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Cost & Materials

• Program fee: $160

• Includes digital Virginia Extension Master Gardener Handbook  

• Optional printed handbook available for an additional fee (details provided upon acceptance) 

*** Need-based scholarships are available  

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How to Apply

1. Review all classroom and participation requirements above.  
2. Click the APPLY ONLINE button below.

3. To the right of the screen, click the black button labeled "Fill in an Application" 
4. Create an account at MyImpact.com.  
5. Complete and submit your application.

 

     NOTE: Payment is not due until after you've been accepted into the program.

     Each applicant will be interviewed as part of the application process.

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