Become a Master Gardener in Union County, NJ
Rutgers Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who share research-based gardening information with their communities. Anyone 18 or older with an interest in gardening and a commitment to volunteering can apply. No experience is needed.
The Training
- Classroom and field instruction from Rutgers faculty and staff
- Topics include botany, plant identification, soil science, insects, plant diseases, composting and integrated pest management
- Union County classes meet in person on Tuesday mornings, fall through early spring, at Trailside Nature & Science Center in Mountainside, NJ.
- Hands-on learning in our Demonstration Gardens
Volunteering
- 60 volunteer hours within your first 12 to 18 months
- After that, 25 volunteer hours and 10 hours of continuing education each year to stay active
How to Join
- Fill out the interest form. We’ll contact you when the next class opens.
- Attend an orientation session.
- Apply to the Union County program. Up to 25 students are accepted each year, and Union County residents get priority.
- Accepted students receive registration and fee details by email.
Questions?
Contact Martina Lavender, Master Gardener Coordinator, at 908-654-9856 or mel262@njaes.rutgers.edu
For county-specific information and special accommodations, please contact your local Extension Office through find your county Extension office. For concerns related to discrimination, contact the State Extension Director’s Office at 848-932-3584.