UC Cooperative Extension
Karmjot Randhawa
County Director
(559) 243-6564
UC Cooperative Extension
145 Tozer St. Suite 103
Madera, CA 93638
Office Phone: (559) 675-7879
Fax: (559) 675-0639
Apply to Become a Master Gardener
Apply to become a Master Gardener
Do you love to garden?
If you love gardening and enjoy sharing your knowledge with others, the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UCANR), Madera County, Master Gardener program might be for you.
Master Gardeners are volunteers that have been trained to educate the public on science-based sustainable gardening practices.
We are a part of the University of California Cooperative Extension and provide a link between the University and our community.
We are committed to educating the public on best practices in home horticulture, sustainable landscaping and pest management.
Application process to become a Master Gardener
Master Gardener Training Classes are offered on odd numbered years. Preparations have begun for the 2025 Training Classes.
We will hold two informational meet and greet sessions for those interested in joining the program and becoming Master Gardener volunteers:
May 4, 2024 at Woodward Park Library (944 E Perrin Ave Fresno) from 10:00-11:30
June 1, 2024 at our demonstration garden-Garden of the Sun(1750 N Winery, Fresno) from 10:00-11:30
Registration link for these sessions
The application period will open June 1, 2024 and run through August 31, 2024.
If you have any questions about the application process contact our helpline:mgfresno@ucanr.edu.
This year's applicants will be invited to Meet the Master Gardeners, a mandatory meeting at the Garden of the Sun in September. Applicants will schedule interview appointments at that time.
Applicants must demonstrate effective communication skills, the ability to work with the public, willingness and ability to fulfill volunteer hours.
If you are accepted into the UC Master Gardener 2025 training class you will be enrolled in weekly training classes beginning January 2025 and running through April. There is a tuition fee of $250. Partial scholarships are available. For working with the public, the UC requires that trainees be fingerprinted and pass a background check.
New Master Gardeners are required to contribute 50 hours of hands on training during the first 18 months of service. In subsequent years, Master Gardeners are required to contribute 25 hours of volunteer service and 12 hours of continuing education. Continuing education opportunities are provided through the program.
Any other questions about the UC Master Gardener Program of Fresno and Madera County? Contact us by email at mgfresno@ucanr.edu
The Training Process
Weekly classes are taught by University of California Cooperative Extension advisers, horticultural specialists, Master Gardeners and community experts.
Trainees are expected to attend all classes. Only one absence is permitted and it must be made up.
Topics will include plant science, soil and plant nutrition, water and fertilizer management, pest identification and management, vegetable gardening, plant disease and diagnosis, and much more.Trainees will be assigned a Master Gardener mentor who will support and assist them throughout the training.
Any other questions about the UC Master Gardener Program of Fresno County? Contact us by email at mgfresno@ucanr.edu
Madera Master Gardener program
The Three Sisters Demonstration Garden is a large project developed by University of California Cooperative Extension Madera County Master Gardener's program in collaboration with Madera Community College Center as a permanent resource for residents of Madera County.
The Madera Master Gardener volunteers will hold a Meet the Master Gardener Night in August. Come and find out more about what we do in the community. Date to be announced soon.
For questions about Madera Master Gardener program contact:
Master Gardener Coordinator for Fresno & Madera
Denise Cuendett at