Master Gardeners are volunteers who provide service to a community by addressing common horticulture problems and questions. They share their special interests in horticulture and the skills they acquire in Master Gardener training with the community in various ways. They answer plant and gardening questions from home owners. They help design and operate exhibits, displays and demonstrations. And, they make presentations to both large and small groups.

Although no background in horticulture is required for acceptance into the program, participants are required to complete the Master Gardener training. They receive a minimum of 45 hours of in-depth classroom training on such topics as soils, botany, entomology, pathology, house plants, landscaping, and fruit and vegetable production. They also gain practical experience by attending field trips and workshops. In addition, Master Gardeners gain public relations, teaching and communication experience.

In return for this intensive training, Master Gardeners donate at least 60 hours of volunteer horticulture-related service to their local Extension Service.