Master Gardener Educational Programs

 

Become a Master Gardener

In response to urban growth and the increasing interest in gardening, Washington State University Cooperative Extension offered the first Master Gardener Program in 1973. The concept of training volunteers was critical in these beginning stages to meet the high demand for gardening information. Dr. David Gibby was instrumental in developing a training curriculum for volunteers. As a result, Master Gardener Programs now operate throughout the United States and Canada.

Typically, extensive training promotes the use of Master Gardener volunteers in assisting with class preparation, research, public speaking, problem solving, answering gardening questions, facilitating group activities, preparing for garden tours, developing plant profiles, and writing articles. To promote gardening, volunteers partner with community programs, gardens, and educational organizations. The Master Gardeners Association of Alberta exists to support Master Gardeners in these endeavors, providing them with opportunities to learn, connect, and grow!

The MGAA itself does not offer basic courses nor training to become a Master Gardener.  Current Master Gardener Educational Programs offered in Alberta are listed here for your convenience. If you need more information or want to find a program closer to your home city you may contact one of the organizations listed or do an online search.

 

Calgary Horticultural Society - Master Gardener Program

The program is perfect for gardeners interested in learning more about the art and science of gardening and who might be looking for future volunteer opportunities in the community.

The program is both theoretical and practical. It includes classroom and hands-on learning, tours provided by horticulturists, experienced practitioners and industry experts. A volunteer practicum will take the participants from the status of MIT (Master Gardener in Training) to a Master Gardener.  Offered in person and on-line.

2025/2026 Program: The course runs Saturdays from 8:30am to 1pm, starting on Saturday Oct 18 and ending April 18 (excepting holidays) either at Bethany Chapel in Calgary and/or online via Zoom. 

Please visit https://www.calhort.org/whats-happening/master-gardener/? for more information.

 

 

Parkland County MG Program, Stony Plain

The Organic Master Gardener program in Stony Plain is Alberta’s first and most extensive organic and regenerative master gardener program. Under the umbrella of Red Brick Common, the program is geared to adult learners of all levels of gardening experience. From those absolutely brand new to the soil, to those who have years of experience in their own yards, or for those who want an addition to a résumé, the OMG program in Stony Plain is an excellent means to enjoyable learning. And this is a Certificate program.

The program runs from January to October. Half of the 26 (3 hour) courses are from the Gaia College curriculum (www.gaiacollege.ca) and the other half are locally developed courses created for our north central Alberta soils and growing season. Winter classes are online and summer classes and practicums are held at our six acre site. Students receive no tests or exams but are asked to compile a portfolio of work throughout the year.

For a detailed syllabus, go to www.RedBrickCommon.ca/OMG, or send an email to [email protected].

Red Brick Common has been preserving and promoting the history of Stony Plain for over 40 years. We seek to engage local residents, businesses, governments, community organizations and visitors as we record, promote and celebrate the agricultural heritage, regional cultural roots and historic values of the Town of Stony Plain, the City of Spruce Grove and Parkland County.  http://See www.RedBrickCommon.ca

 

Dalhousie University - Alberta Master Gardener Training Program (Online)

Designed for passionate gardeners and those interested in deepening their horticultural knowledge, this flexible, self-paced program is ideal for learners seeking personal enrichment or pursuing certification as a Master Gardener in their region.

 Program Highlights:

  •     Regionally tailored curriculum for Atlantic Canada, Ontario, and Alberta
  •     Four independent study courses: Science of Gardening, Maintaining the Garden,
  •     Plant Identification & Use, Art of Gardening

    Fully online and self-paced, perfect for adult learners and busy schedules

 Key Dates & Details:

  •     Register before October 1, 2025 → access begins October 1.
  •     Register after October 1, 2025 → access begins the same day you register.
  •     Complete by: July 31, 2026. Bonus - All students will have access to course materials until July 31!  

    Tuition: $488.00 per course

    Continuous intake - register at any time during the enrollment window and start learning on your schedule

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your gardening skills or support your community through horticulture education, the Dalhousie Master Gardener Program offers a rich and rewarding learning experience.

If you need assistance with registration, our Extended Learning team is here to help at [email protected] or 902-893-6666.

Visit dal.ca/exl to learn more!

For further information and to register: https://registeratcontinuingeducation.dal.ca/public/category/courseCategoryCertificateProfile.do?method=load&certificateId=1861030&selectedProgramAreaId=17381&selectedProgramStreamId=17410