Are you passionate about gardening? Do you enjoy sharing knowledge and helping others? Consider becoming a UC Master Gardener volunteer in Tulare/Kings County! As a UC Master Gardener, you'll receive in-depth training from University of California experts and then use that knowledge to help your community through education and outreach.
The UC Master Gardener Program follows a training-plus-service model. New volunteers complete approximately 17 weeks of comprehensive horticultural training covering topics like plant science, soil health, pest management, vegetables, fruit trees, ornamentals, and sustainable gardening practices. . After completing the training and passing a certification exam, new Master Gardeners contribute volunteer service to the community—typically 50 hours in the first year and 25 hours annually thereafter.
As a UC Master Gardener, you might staff our helpline answering gardening questions, teach workshops on topics you're passionate about, work in our demonstration gardens, give presentations to community groups, or participate in special projects like school gardens or our annual plant sale. You'll receive ongoing continuing education, work alongside fellow gardening enthusiasts, and make a real difference in your community. Our program is welcoming to people of all backgrounds—you don't need to be an expert gardener to join, just enthusiastic about learning and sharing!
Applications for our next training class are accepted in fall every other year, with training beginning in January (next training class will start in 2028). To learn more about the application process, time commitment, and what to expect, explore the pages below or contact our program coordinator at ambayless@ucanr.edu.