People interested in becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer follow a volunteer selection process. Applications are available at the link below. There will be a mandatory orientation before the first class, and prospective volunteers must complete a background check.
As part of their training, interns must complete 50 hours of horticulture education (arranged by Miami County Extension) and donate 50 hours back to the Master Gardener Volunteer Program. Having acquired the necessary education hours and given the required volunteer hours, interns achieve Master Gardener Volunteer status.
For each Master Gardener Volunteer, 10 hours of continuing education and 20 hours of volunteer work are required each year to maintain Master Gardener status.
Miami County currently has 65 Master Gardener Volunteers and 20 Master Gardener Volunteer interns actively pursuing horticulture activities. Their commitment to the health and beauty of our community is greatly appreciated!
To learn more about the Master Gardener Volunteer program in Miami County, download this informational brochure or contact the Miami County Extension office.
Beginning in February 2026, we will offer a hybrid training class. There will be a mandatory orientation on February 3, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The remainder of the course will be a mix of in-person laboratories, required reading and assignments.
Applications are now available. You must create an account and fill out an application by December 31 to be considered. The course fee is $175 and must be paid by January 15. Email bennett.709@osu.edu with questions.
Master Gardener Projects
The Master Gardener Volunteer program of Miami County is currently involved in the following special projects:
- Fall Seminar -- Blooms to Bounty
- Pruning Workshop
- Community Plant Sale
- Miami County in Bloom (biannual garden tour - even years)
- Fall Farm Fest at Lostcreek Preserve
- Tipp City's Christmas in the Village
- The Garden Tribe - Piqua Central Intermediate School
- Miami County Fair each August
- Scholarship program