What Is a Master Gardener?

A Master Gardener is a volunteer, trained by Extension educators, who provides service to the community by assisting homeowners with gardening questions.

Education is what we're all about. With no products or services to sell, Master Gardeners can provide unbiased, research-based information from the University to the public.

Master Gardeners provide information about:

• Yard, garden and house plants
• Proper use of chemical controls
• Nonchemical control options
• Plant & disease identification
• Insect & pest identification
• Planting methods & weed control
• Composting & soil testing
• Woody plants, trees and shrubs
• Fruit trees and small fruits
• Vegetables and herbs
• Tree, yard and household insects
• Wildlife management

Master Gardeners Provide Community Services

The Master Gardener program is unique, in that once participants are trained, they return a minimum of 60 hours of volunteer time in various community service projects.

• Speakers' bureau
• Horticultural therapy
• School/after-school programs
• Demonstration gardens
• Youth and adult horticulture workshops
• Educational displays and exhibits
• Distribution of horticulture fact sheets and information

Ask a Master Gardener

Master Gardener's Main Office, Third District Court Building, 2121 W. Euclid Avenue, Suite 251, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008; phone (847) 818-2901 (Available April-October, Weekdays 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.)

Friendship Park Conservatory, 395 Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016; Phone (847) 298-3502 (Available April-October, Weekdays 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.)

Due to reduction of calls that come into the Master Gardener desk during the winter months, Master Gardeners are available to answer calls on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.