By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University (NDSU) Extension is accepting applications for its 2027 Extension Master Gardener Program. The program offers an excellent opportunity for people who enjoy gardening and want to share their plant knowledge with others. Designed for adults, the program provides practical education, hands-on learning, and volunteer opportunities that help improve communities across North Dakota.
Online training for the 2027 program begins in January 2027. Accepted applicants will complete a 40-hour volunteer training course that provides the knowledge and skills needed for future volunteer projects. Weekly classes are scheduled from January 22 through April 2, 2027.
The training covers a wide range of horticulture topics. Participants learn about vegetable and fruit production, soil health, composting methods, plant diseases, insect management, annual and perennial flowers, tree care, landscape design, indoor plants, and lawn maintenance. These topics help students build a strong foundation in gardening and plant care.
Classes are taught by NDSU faculty members and Extension professionals who provide research-based information and practical advice. The course is designed to be accessible and convenient for many different participants.
“The 10-week training is designed to be flexible for working individuals and snowbirds wintering in other states,” says Esther McGinnis, NDSU Extension horticulturist and Extension Master Gardener director. “Students can participate in the live Friday classes from 9 a.m. to noon using interactive webinar technology.”
Participants can join live online classes each Friday morning. Those who are unable to attend live sessions can watch recorded lectures at a time that works best for them. In addition, students living in Fargo, North Dakota have the option to attend classes in person on the NDSU campus.
After completing the 40-hour training course, participants become Extension Master Gardener interns. This stage allows them to begin using their knowledge through volunteer activities that benefit local communities and gardening programs.
To become certified Extension Master Gardener volunteers, interns must complete 48 volunteer hours within a two-year period. These volunteer projects are completed in partnership with NDSU Extension and provide valuable services to communities throughout the state.
The program also helps build a network of trained volunteers who encourage responsible gardening practices and environmental stewardship. Through their work, volunteers help residents make informed decisions about gardening, landscaping, and plant care.
NDSU Extension reports that 25 North Dakota counties will accept a limited number of applications for the 2027 program. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early because available spaces may be limited.
The program fee is $250, and the application deadline is November 4, 2026. For individuals who want the educational training without the volunteer requirement, a nonvolunteer option is available for $475. Registration for this option remains open until December 16, 2026.
Information and application materials for both the Master Gardener Core Course and the Extension Professional Horticulture Course are available through NDSU Extension.
For more information, contact your NDSU Extension county office or McGinnis at esther.mcginnis@ndsu.edu.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-joshua-resnick
Categories: North Dakota, General