The Extension Master Gardener program was established in Missouri in 1983 and provides in-depth horticultural training for Missourians who wish to share their knowledge of gardening. The mission of the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener program is to support MU Extension by providing trained volunteers to assist in public horticulture education.
This course prepares Extension Master Gardeners in topics related to soils, plant nutrition, vegetables, fruits, ornamental woody plants, herbaceous plants, plant propagation, disease and insect control, lawn care, residential landscape, environmental stewardship, and safe use of pest management strategies.
Extension Master Gardener volunteers assist MU Extension by utilizing unbiased research-based information to educate, answer frequently asked gardening questions, teach through demonstration gardens, donate produce, present as speakers' bureaus, and share information.
To become trained as an Extension Master Gardener, an individual must attend a 30-hour training course and provide 30 hours of volunteer service back to their community.
- Cost: $200
- Contact Information: Traven Crocker, Field Specialist in Horticulture,
- Email: travencrocker@missouri.edu,
- Phone: 573-686-8064
In-Person Master Gardener Core Training in Butler County.
Takes place Thursday mornings from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m (noon).
Starts January 15th until April 23rd 2026.
Located at 614 Lindsay, Poplar Bluff, MO 63901.
Manual provided
For more information about MU Extension Master Gardeners. https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/extension-master-gardener
Sessions include:
- Plants and Their Environment
- Soils, Plant Nutrition and Nutrient Management
- Plant Diseases and Disorders
- Insects, Pollinators, and Integrated Pest Management
- Plant Propagation
- Vegetable Gardening
- Fruit Gardening
- Herbaceous Plants
- Establishment and Care of Woody Ornamental Plants
- Pruning Ornamental Plants
- Turf and Lawn Maintenance
- Residential Landscaping
- Using Pesticides Safely in the Home and Garden
