Become an active part of your community!
Learn skills in gardening and environmental stewardship. Share your knowledge and experience to help others Grow. If you are passionate about gardening, education, and volunteering—the Master Gardener Program could be a great fit for you.
Wilson County Extension will be offering a Master Gardener training course beginning January 2027! Applications are due by October 1st, 2026. See below to learn more about the program and how to apply.
What are Master Gardener volunteers?
Master Gardener Volunteers are experienced gardeners who want to learn more about growing plants and using them in the landscape. They receive extensive training through the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service. In exchange, they volunteer their knowledge and gardening expertise to the public.
How do I become a Master Gardener?
You can complete and submit your Master Gardener application either online or by mail/in person.
Option 1: Complete and Submit Online
- You may complete and submit the application online by filling out the following google form version: Master Gardener Wilson County Online Application
Option 2: Submit by Mail or In Person
- Paper copies of the application are available at the Wilson County Extension Office.
- You may also download a PDF version of the Master Gardener Application: Wilson County Master Gardener Application 2026
- Print this application, fill it out, and return it by mail or deliver it in person to: Brooke Dongarra, N.C. Cooperative Extension – Wilson County Center, 1806 Goldsboro St. SW, Wilson, NC 27893
If accepted into the program, you will be contacted to attend a 40-hour training course. A training fee of $140 will apply to cover the cost of your materials. Classes will be held over a multi-week duration, and will be taught by Extension staff, Master Gardeners, and University Professionals.
Topics: lawns, ornamental trees & shrubs, insects, diseases, weeds, soil, plant nutrition, vegetables & fruit production, flowers, and water conservation
What can I do after training is completed?
Once you successfully complete training, you will put your new knowledge to practical use in your community! During your first year in the program, we ask that you complete 40 hours of volunteer service. The Wilson County Master Gardener program offers a variety of volunteer opportunities to match the interests of our members, including:
Publicity & Fundraising, Youth & Senior Programs, Public Speaking & Exhibits, Events & Workshops, Greenhouse Management, Garden Management, Landscape Design, Leadership & Advisory.....and more!
Wilson Botanical Gardens
Come help us keep the gardens beautiful! Our group of dedicated Master Gardner volunteers are crucial to maintaining the gardens and cultivating community knowledge about horticulture. The Wilson Botanical Gardens serve as an educational demonstration garden and outdoor classroom for the community.
The Wilson Botanical Gardens host a variety of educational gardening events and activities throughout the year with the help of our Extension Master Gardener Volunteers.
For questions or further information, please contact Brooke Dongarra, Wilson County Horticulture Agent | 252.237.0111 | bematusk@ncsu.edu
