Register for Master Gardener Level 1 Training!

Registration for UW-Madison Extension’s Master Gardener Level 1 training in Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties is now open. Training will be held in Waukesha County (Fox Brook Lodge in Fox Brook Park, 2925 N Barker Rd, Brookfield) from 1-4pm on Mondays from September 9 to December 2 and in Milwaukee County (6737 W Washington St., West Allis) from 5:30-8: 30 pm on Wednesdays from September 4 to December 4 (no class on November 20).

The Level 1 information brochure and application form are available on the SEWMG website. Scholarships for those with financial need are also available for a limited number of people. Please visit the above webpage for more information on scholarships. Applications + two checks (one address to “UW Madison Extension” for $219 and one addressed to “SEWMG” for $10) must be received by 4:30 pm on Friday, August 9, 2019. They are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Thank you again for your interest in our program. If you have any questions, please contact Laura Herzog at laura.j.herzog@wisc.edu or 414-615-0517. Please be mindful of her part-time schedule.

 

What is a Master Gardener? 

The UW-Madison Division of Extension Master Gardener Volunteer (MGV) program trains adults in university research-based horticultural concepts and practices so that they may volunteer to assist Extension in providing garden-based educational programs and information to the public.

Level 1 Training is the class for new Master Gardener Volunteers. This 13-week training provides a broad overview of horticultural and gardening related topics, including:

  • General Gardening Practices
  • Fruits and Vegetables
  • Botany for Gardeners
  • Entomology (Insects)
  • Annuals and Perennials
  • Plant Diseases
  • Weeds and Invasive Plants
  • Soil
  • Trees and Shrubs
  • Lawn Care for Homeowners

Class format includes PowerPoint presentations, videos, group discussions, and hands-on activities. Sessions emphasize university research-based information supported by the University of Wisconsin.

Scholarships are available

Registration FAQs
  • When will I know if I’ve been accepted?
    • Enrollment will be confirmed by e-mail by August 23.
  • Is the course available online?
    • Unfortunately, no. Some course materials are available online, but you must take the course in person.
  • Is there homework?
    • No. However, students are encouraged to read the chapter on that week’s subject ahead of time.
  • What if I miss a class?
    • If you know that you will be missing more than one class, discuss this with your class coordinator before the start of the training. You will not be allowed to attend a make-up class at another location or date.
  • Why is there a background check?
    • All UW-Madison Extension volunteers are required to complete a criminal background check, which requires sharing your SSN. This is due to our work with children, the elderly, and other vulnerable populations.
  • Will they accept a Tax ID Number (TIN)?
    • No
  • What would disqualify me?
    • We handle CBCs on a case-by-case basis; however, the leading cause of disqualification is violence against a minor. 
  • Are scholarships available?
    • Yes, they are. Please see the bottom of the registration form for more information.