Become a Baltimore City Master Gardener

If you are a Maryland adult who likes working with people and plants and you are committed to teaching science-based gardening practices in Baltimore communities, then you are invited to join the group of 180+ trained, Baltimore City Master Gardener (BCMG) volunteers who support a range of garden-based projects and activities. Learn gardening skills from experts; discover the best ways to deal with urban gardening challenges and work with fellow volunteers, community partners, and city residents who share your enjoyment of gardening.

Baltimore City Master Gardeners are volunteer educators representing a  University of Maryland Extension (UME) program that advances the UME mission of educating residents on sustainable horticultural practices that help to build healthy landscapes and communities.

Steps to becoming a Master Gardener in Baltimore City 

Step 1: Apply to become a trainee -
Applications for the 2024 class closed on Nov 30, 2023.  The next opportunity to apply will be fall 2024.

Application: There is one annual trainee class which typically begins in February. The application period for trainees is typically in the fall for the following spring. 

Selection Process:  A panel interviews and selects a cohort of trainees who demonstrate a commitment to volunteering as garden educators, a willingness to work cooperatively, and the desire to learn and apply new skills and knowledge. 

Fee: The class fee is $250, to be paid at the first in person class, and includes the 671-page MG handbook. Applicants also pay approximately $15 for a standard volunteer background check. Scholarships are available on a case by case basis. Please let the BCMG Coordinator or interviewer know of your interest in a scholarship during your interview.


Step 2: Complete the training and pass the exam

Applicants accepted into the annual Baltimore City training cohort attend scheduled classes/activities.  Class dates and times vary from year to year based on logistics but are generally scheduled on weekday evenings February through April, with an occasional Saturday morning.  Most recently, classes have been a mix of virtual and in-person at the Cylburn Arboretum greenhouse classroom. Trainees must attend a minimum of 75% of scheduled classes and pass a take-home exam to become a MG Intern.


Step 3: Complete your BCMG Intern volunteer service

To help Interns gain practical, hands-on experience and develop educational skills, they must complete and report 40 hours of approved volunteer service by December 31st of their trainee year to become certified as a Master Gardener. Intern volunteer opportunities are regularly sent out via email and posted on the BCMG website calendar with an easy online signup link. 


Step 4: Maintain active BCMG status

To maintain active Master Gardener status, Master Gardeners must complete and report a minimum of 20 hours of approved volunteer service and 10 hours of approved continuing education in each calendar year. 

What to expect from the BCMG training


Master Gardener training is intended to provide trainees with a basic foundation about sustainable urban gardening theory and practice.  Classes are taught by specialists, educators, and other horticulture professionals. 


Topics typically include ecology, water science, botany, entomology & invasive insects, integrated pest management & pesticide safety, soils, Baywise & conservation landscaping, plant nutrition & pruning, plant pathology & diagnostics. plant propagation, woody & herbaceous plants, container gardening, native & invasive plants, turf & turf alternatives, vegetable & small fruit gardening. 

Activities may include a greenhouse tour and a demonstration garden visit.