The next Master Gardener Volunteer training class will begin winter 2026. The purpose of the community meetings is to review the goals, policies, and procedures for the Master Gardener Volunteer Program. Individuals planning to apply to be a part of the 2026 Master Gardener Volunteer class must attend one of these meetings listed below. No registration is required to attend the meetings.

COMMUNITY MEETINGS FOR 2026 CLASS:

All classes will be held at the Kunz-Brundige Franklin County Extension Building located at 2548 Carmack Road, Columbus, OH 43210. Free parking in the gravel lot west of the building. The paved lot is reserved for Extension clients and staff. 

  • Friday, June 20, 2025, 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

  • Wednesday, July 9, 2025, 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. 

  • Thursday, August 7, 2025, 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

If you're not able to attend on the community meetings and wish to be put on the list for the 2028 class, please email Mike Hogan at hogan.1@osu.edu and request to be put on our mailing list.

The Franklin County Master Gardener program is open to Franklin County residents who are amateur gardeners.

The cost for 2024 was $375. Applicants also pay for a background check.

Trainees receive 50 hours of training in horticultural topics. Training topics include: botany, plant nomenclature, understanding soils and fertilizer, plant pathology, entomology, integrated pest management, pesticide safety, growing vegetables and fruits, woody and herbaceous ornamentals, home lawn management, plant diagnostics.

In return, trainees volunteer 50 hours of community service. Once training and community service are completed, the trainee is certified as a Master Gardener.

What makes a good Master Gardener Volunteer?

  • Desire to learn more about plants and gardening.

  • Eagerness to participate in a practical and intensive training program.

  • Enjoyment in sharing your knowledge with others.

  • Ability to attend training and serve your community as a volunteer educator.