It’s that time again! If you love plants and are willing to share your knowledge with others, then we have a program for you. It is the Tennessee Extension Master Gardener Program. The mission of the Tennessee Extension Master Gardener Program is to improve the lives of Tennesseans through horticulture education delivered by a dedicated and skilled volunteer network.
The Extension Master Gardener Program began in 1972 in Seattle and Tacoma, Washington, under the leadership of horticulture Extension agent Dr. David Gibby. Dr. Gibby trained individuals with a passion for gardening to assist Extension in providing consumer horticulture education. Today, the Extension Master Gardener Program has spread to all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
The Extension Master Gardener Program originated in Shelby County in 1995 under former horticulture agent Booker T. Leigh. The Memphis Area Master Gardeners operate under the guidance of the UT-TSU Shelby County Extension Service and provide horticulture education to the citizens of Shelby County and beyond.
Memphis Area Master Gardeners conduct seminars, staff plant clinics, develop educational programs, and publish gardening articles, just to name a few of their activities. They also organize community events such as “Through Our Garden Gates” (TOGG) and “Spring Fling”.
To learn more about this incredible program, please visit Memphis Area Master Gardeners at https://memphisareamastergardeners.org/. You will also find the 2027 Extension Master Gardener application on the website and at our Extension office.
If you have any questions, please contact Master Gardener Coordinator Jessica Maestas at 901-752-1207. She will be more than happy to share all the wonderful opportunities this program has to offer! Be sure to tell your family and friends that the application is now available.
