Missouri Master Gardener Online Core Training - Spring 2026

Jan 2, 2026 - Apr 27, 2026
Instructor: Debi Kelly

Please use your full name as you want it to appear on your course certificate (if applicable) when creating your account and registering.

Course Overview:

The Extension Master Gardener program was established in Missouri in 1983 and provides in-depth horticultural training for Missourians who wish to share their knowledge of gardening. The mission of the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener program is to support MU Extension by providing trained volunteers to assist in public horticulture education.

This course prepares Extension Master Gardeners in topics related to soils, plant nutrition, vegetables, fruits, ornamental woody plants, herbaceous plants, plant propagation, disease and insect control, lawn care, residential landscape, environmental stewardship, and safe use of pest management strategies.

Extension Master Gardener volunteers assist MU Extension by utilizing unbiased research-based information to educate, answer frequently asked gardening questions, teach through demonstration gardens, donate produce, present as speakers' bureaus, and share information.

Learning Outcomes:

To understand the mission of the Missouri Master Gardener Program and how it functions.
To acquire a working knowledge of the fundamental principles of plant growth and development.
To apply concepts of plant growth and development to everyday situations and uses in horticulture.
To learn basic terminology associated with the art and science of horticulture.
To gain an appreciation of horticulture as a life-long pursuit.

Topics:

This course covers:

Plants and their environment;
Plant propagation;
Soils, plant nutrition and nutrient management;
Vegetable gardening;
Fruit production;
Establishment and care of woody ornamentals;
Pruning ornamental trees and shrubs;
Herbaceous ornamentals;
Managing lawn and turfgrass;
Landscaping your front yard;
Insects;
Preventing and managing plant diseases;
Using pesticides safely around the home and garden.

Instructor(s):

Debi Kelly

Dr. David Trinklein

Sarah Denkler

Course Materials:

The Master Gardener Manual is provided by chapter within the course. You can also order a hard copy of the Missouri Master Gardener Core Manual (https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/cb19).

Length:

Fifteen weeks. Offered twice each year.

Department:

Division of Plant Sciences, University of Missouri Extension

Credit:

Certificate

Audience:

Adults

Accommodations

University of Missouri Extension complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you have a disability and need accommodations in connection with participation in an educational program or you need materials in an alternate format, please notify your instructor as soon as possible so that necessary arrangements can be made.

Cancellations and Refund Requests

Access MU Extension’s Course Cancellation and Refund Policy for details.

Full course description