Virtual Master Gardener
Our main objective is to train volunteers to assist Purdue Extension with home horticulture education in local communities. Purdue EMG’s receive training in horticulture to equip them to fulfill this educational role through volunteering in a variety of projects approved by their local EMG County Coordinator (Purdue Extension Educator). The requirements for Purdue EMG certification include acceptance into the training through an application and screening process, payment of registration fee, completion of the EMG Basic Training which includes passing the open-book final exam with a score of 70% or higher, and contributing at least 40 hours of volunteer service approved by the local EMG County Coordinator within two years. Purdue Extension Master Gardeners are also required to complete at least 12 volunteer and 6 continuing education hours every year in order to stay active.
PROGRAM INFORMATION
For Spring 2024, there will be a Statewide Virtual Purdue EMG Basic Training from February 6 – May 7 (with completion of final exam after May 7). Many counties have come together to offer this program which includes a local county connection hour. The statewide live webinars will be held on Tuesdays, from 6:30 – 8:30 pm (ET)/5:30 – 7:30 pm (CT). Here in Marion County, the local county connection hour will be on Thursday at 5:30 pm each week. This will be offered live Virtually through a link you will receive.
Application and Registration Information (Two-Step Process to participate)
STEP 1
Please read the Purdue Extension Master Gardener Program Policy Guide and complete, sign, and return the Purdue Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Application and Agreement (Form EMG-1) to Barb Schwartz (rusin0@purdue.edu. You may download the policy guide here.
All applicants are also required to show evidence of a government issued photo ID to your local EMG County Coordinator or designated Purdue Extension staff prior to approval of their application. Virtual options or an in-person appointment can be utilized to complete this requirement.
The application deadline is January 15, 2024, 11:59 pm (ET).
step 2
REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT OF FEES THROUGH ONLINE REGISTRATION PORTAL
Upon approval of your application and providing evidence of government issued photo ID, an online registration link will be sent to you. The registration options are listed below:
- $185.00 for an individual registration which includes a print version of the Purdue EMG Manual.
- $285.00 for two people sharing the Purdue EMG Manual. (Sharing option works best for two people living in the same household.)
- Participants can add a digital version of the manual for an additional $25.00.
Once your payment is confirmed, your copy of the Purdue EMG Manual will be shipped to you prior to the start of the training.
Once your payment is confirmed, your copy of the Purdue EMG Manual will be shipped to you prior to the start of the training.
Registration site to open by early December, 2023
refund policy
If you cancel your registration prior to January 22, 2024, 11:59 pm (ET), you will be charged 12% of the registration fee + $5.00. There are no refunds after January 22, 2024. Purdue University is not responsible for expenses incurred due to cancellations by registrants. Purdue University reserves the right to cancel any program. Registrants will receive a full refund in the event that Purdue University cancels the program.
stateside live webinar schedule
February 6 Purdue EMG Orientation
February 13 Plant Science
February 20 Soils and Plant Nutrition
February 27 Herbaceous Ornamentals
March 5 Weed ID and Control
March 12 Vegetable Gardening
March 19 Insect ID and Control
March 26 Animal Pests
April 2 Pesticide Safety and Alternatives
April 9 Plant Disease Diagnosis
April 16 Invasive Species
April 23 Woody Ornamentals
April 30 Lawn Care
May 7 Fruit Gardening