Gardeners looking to expand their horticultural knowledge have two opportunities through Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Garden Academy. Whether your goal is to volunteer in your community or simply become a more knowledgeable home gardener, there is a training option to fit your interests.

Applications for the Fall 2026 Master Gardener Volunteer training cohort will be accepted from July 20 through August 14. Hamilton and Webster counties will partner to offer the training, providing participants with a combination of online learning and local, in-person educational sessions.

The Master Gardener Volunteer Track is designed for individuals who want to share their gardening knowledge through volunteer service. Participants complete a background check, pay a discounted registration fee of $175, successfully complete the 10-week training program, and fulfill a 40-hour volunteer internship. Upon completion, participants earn the title of Iowa Master Gardener volunteer.

For those who are interested in learning solely for personal enrichment, the Iowa Home Gardener Track offers the same comprehensive horticulture education without the volunteer commitment. Participants pay $350, complete the training, and receive a certificate of completion as an Iowa Home Gardener. Enrollment for this track is available on demand through the ISU Extension Store.

Master Gardener trainees complete online learning modules and attend at least four in-person classes hosted by their county extension office. After successfully passing the final exam, volunteer-track participants complete their internship in the county where they trained.

Hamilton and Webster County participants will attend in-person classes together, with topics including community gardens, houseplants, chrysanthemums, and Iowa prairies.

“Many people have misconceptions about what the Master Gardener program truly is,” said Alicia Herzog, ISU Extension and Outreach Master Gardener Statewide Coordinator. “The Master Gardener program is about more than just learning how to grow your best garden, although you will learn that as well. Trainees use knowledge gained in training to grow food for those in need, partner with area organizations to design green spaces, and present programs in their local communities.”

The Iowa Master Gardener Program is a year-round volunteer service organization that prepares university-trained volunteers to use research-based horticultural knowledge to educate others and coordinate projects that promote healthy communities throughout Iowa.

For more than 40 years, Iowa State University has offered Master Gardener training, engaging more than 15,000 Iowans in learning research-based gardening practices while serving their communities.

Individuals of all gardening experience levels are encouraged to apply. Those interested in the Iowa Home Gardener Track may register through the ISU Extension Store.

For more information about the Master Gardener Program or to apply, visit the Hamilton County Extension Master Gardener webpage or contact Linda Cline at the Webster County Extension Office, 515-576-2119 or Sue Schmitz, at the Hamilton County Extension Office, 515-832-9597.