Helping others learn to grow
The mission of the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener program is to provide horticultural information and training to the gardening public based on proven research specific to the local climate, soils, and plants.
Become an Extension Master Gardener
To become an Extension Master Gardener, participants must attend horticultural training (Cost: $200) and provide at least 30 hours of volunteer service back to their community. Visit the Extension Master Gardener website to learn more.
Tamra Reall and Molly Baurain provide training and coordination in Clay and Jackson County, which are part of the Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City (MGGKC) chapter.
Upcoming training
August 7, 2025 - December 11, 2025
Online, Thursdays from 9 a.m.-noon. Additional dates for optional in-person field sessions. Register for this virtual event series here.
August 10, 2025 - December 23, 2025
Online, self-paced. Register for the online course here.
Scholarships may be available. Please apply for a scholarship at the same time that you register for training.
Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City
Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City (MGGKC) answer gardening questions through the hotline and provide education through the speaker's bureau, demonstration gardens, and other programs.
According to the 2024 annual report, Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City: Had 256 active members and contributed 13,102 service hours (valued at $438,786). Maintained 17 demonstration/partnership gardens. Grew, harvested, and donated 8,929 pounds of produce to local food pantries.
MGGKC highlights
Gardening hotline: 816-833-TREE (8733) or mggkc.hotline@gmail.com
Speakers bureau: Request a gardening presentation
#TuesdayTip gardening videos: Watch here
For more information about Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City, visit the MGGKC website and follow them on Facebook.
Check it out
If you like Extension Master Gardener, here are some other opportunities or programs which may interest you.
Kids Ask Dr. Bug
See the playlist of all videos
The Garden Hour with MU Extension
Third Wednesdays, Noon - 1 p.m.
Register & submit questions
Watch live on the MU IPM YouTube channel
A list of other gardening education opportunities, put together by Dr. Reall.
Extension Garden Steward
A beginner-friendly, five-week program covering site assessment, vegetable gardening, ornamentals, entomology, pollinator habitats, and environmental stewardship. This class is currently free (in 2025) – there is no registration fee.
Missouri Master Naturalist
In partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation, this program enhances understanding and management of natural resources. Volunteers educate the public and participate in ecological stewardship activities. Registration fee: $110
Missouri Master Pollinator Steward
This program focuses on pollinator conservation, teaching participants about pollination, honey bees, native pollinators, and habitat improvement through hands-on activities.
Get in-depth horticultural training and join the Master Gardeners in “helping others learn to grow.”
Missouri Master Gardeners, use this online system to report your volunteer hours.
Put your plans, thoughts and results on paper to help ensure successful gardening.