Become a Rutgers Master Gardener

Rutgers Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who assist Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (NJAES) Cooperative Extension in its mission to deliver horticulture programs and information to the general public. Anyone with an interest in gardening and a commitment to volunteer service can become a Rutgers Master Gardener. No previous education or training in horticulture is required.

To become a certified Rutgers Master Gardener, a volunteer must first complete a classroom-style and hands-on training course which generally occurs weekly from January through mid-June. Following successful completion of the training course, volunteers must perform the required hours of service to attain the title of Certified Rutgers Master Gardener. Thereafter there are also annual recertification requirements.

Becoming a Rutgers Master Gardener is a great opportunity for anyone who is interested in plants and gardening to share research-based best practices with the community. Volunteer opportunity locations vary throughout Somerset County, and include the Bridgewater RCE office, many different community programs and events, and our project sites, and some activities that can be completed remotely. We strive to offer a variety of outreach activities to meet the diverse needs of our community while coordinating opportunities for all who are interested in serving as a Rutgers Master Gardener volunteer.

*NOTE: Registration for Somerset County’s RMG Training Class is CLOSED for 2025. Please visit THIS LINK to receive department news and to be added to the class waitlist for 2026.
For other questions related to the Somerset County Rutgers Master Gardener Program, contact Jessica Shick, Program Coordinator, at jshick@co.somerset.nj.us