If you’re considering joining our group, please fill out this online form so our Membership Coordinator can guide you to next steps.
Some important things to know:
- We meet monthly at the Arboretum Centre in Guelph on the third Thursday of every month, at 7:00 p.m., for approximately 2 hours. (Jan, Feb, Mar, April, May, Sept, Oct, Nov. Summer months are holidays and the December meeting is our year-end party)
- Our meetings have about 15 – 20 minutes of business, 45 mins with an educational speaker or demonstrator, and then 20 to 30 minutes of social time.
- As a volunteer-led organization, MGs are expected to meet the 30 hours of volunteering annually, as well as attend as many meetings and group events (such as our plant sale) as possible.
- We can pair you with a mentor for any gaps in your knowledge
Read more about us here! Wellington Advertiser
History/Background of Master Gardeners Program
The Master Gardeners organization originated in the USA in the early 1970’s and spread to several Canadian provinces by the mid 1980’s. The organization in Ontario began under the auspices of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). Master Gardeners of Ontario are now a charitable non-profit organization with about 30 chapters across the province. The Guelph -Wellington Master Gardeners serve the City of Guelph as well as the residents of Wellington County.
The Role of a Master Gardener
Interest in gardening in the past couple of years has increased tremendously. Not only are people planting flowers, shrubs and trees but there is also interest in growing fruits and vegetables. Beginning gardeners often have questions as they embark on their new hobby. Long time gardeners are constantly adding to their collection of plants and/or vegetables. Master Gardeners can serve the public and their community by:
- Answering questions at gardening events such as plant sales, garden tours, advice tables, etc.
- Assisting the public via ‘Advice Hotlines’ (e-mails)
- Partnering with other community programs such as libraries to educate the public
- Maintaining public gardens in and around the city
- Writing articles in local papers or magazines and/or by appearing on local television
- Hosting annual plant sales in the community
- And more!
Why become a Master Gardener?
Becoming a Master Gardener is a rewarding way to deepen your horticulture knowledge and share your expertise with the public. Master Gardener certification in Ontario requires the completion of educational requirements, plus the contribution of 30 volunteer hours annually. You’re also joining a network of avid gardeners and plant nerds who also enjoying learning – instant friends!
Maintaining Status as a Master Gardener
Once a member, Master Gardeners are expected to be active and to keep up their education by attending workshops, conferences, meetings, lectures, etc. They must complete 6 continuing education units yearly and put in 30 volunteer hours in their community annually.
The first step is to join your local chapter as a Master Gardener in Training (MGiT). MGiTs can complete the educational requirements via:
- online study through the University of Guelph
- online study through Dalhousie University
- by Certification Examination.
Learn more about the Master Gardener of Ontario education program.