By Blake Jackson
Registration is now open for the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener online spring 2026 course, a 15-week program running from January 2 to April 27.
According to Debi Kelly, MU Extension Master Gardener state coordinator, the online core training course offers participants in-depth horticultural knowledge through presentations and weekly discussion forums.
To earn certification as an Extension Master Gardener, individuals must complete the training and volunteer at least 30 hours in their first year, followed by 20 hours annually through MU Extension.
Gardening offers a variety of personal and community benefits, Kelly notes. “One of those rewards is the satisfaction of sharing your plant knowledge with others.” Kelly adds that the Master Gardener program is designed to equip participants with horticultural expertise so they can help others learn about gardening and the environment.
“The program’s motto, ‘helping others learn to grow,’ emphasizes service to others as the program’s main objective,” Kelly says.
Participants will explore the mission of the Master Gardener program and gain foundational knowledge in gardening principles and terminology. The course covers topics such as plant structure and function, soil and nutrition, propagation, fruits and vegetables, herbaceous and woody plants, insect and disease management, landscape design, lawns, and safe pesticide practices.
Completion of the core training is the first step toward Master Gardener certification. Trainees then complete at least 30 volunteer hours, with local coordinators assisting online participants in finding suitable service opportunities.
Since its launch in 2013, more than 4,800 individuals have completed MU Extension’s online Master Gardener training. Programs are available in every U.S. state and most Canadian provinces.
Participants will receive a copy of the Missouri Master Gardener Core Manual with their registration. The deadline to register is January 2, 2026. For more information, contact Kelly at kellyd@missouri.edu.
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Categories: Missouri, Education, General