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The University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener program is now accepting applications for volunteers now through Oct. 1.

According to a release, Extension Master Gardeners bring science-based horticulture knowledge and practices to Minnesota, promoting healthy landscapes and building communities through volunteer efforts.

鈥淥ur understanding of the benefits of gardening is expanding to include personal and community wellbeing, pollinator health, the importance of climate resilient landscapes and more,鈥� said Tim Kenny, statewide director of the Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program. 鈥淏ecoming a Master Gardener volunteer is a great way to invest time and energy in local activities and efforts that support healthy people and a healthy planet.鈥�

To become a master gardener, individuals will need to complete an online, student-friendly course over the span of 14 weeks along with 50 hours of volunteering in the first year. After the first year, attendees need to complete 25 hours of volunteer work per year while others choose to devote more time to the program.

鈥淢aster Gardener volunteers leverage the unique strengths, skills and wisdom within communities to co-create accessible, plant-based projects and achieve sustainable and inspirational results in Minnesota communities,鈥�

While master gardeners are respected and reliable sources for gardening information across Minnesota, the program also gives volunteers the opportunity to expand their interests in areas like sustainability, local foods, pollinators and climate change in addition to conserving green spaces, native plants and clean water.

鈥淲e are connected to our earth and strive for stewardship and sustainability through horticultural best practices and a conscientious approach to volunteer work in alignment with our program priorities,鈥� the website said. 鈥淲e aim to improve not only the lives of the people within our communities but also the land which sustains us.鈥�

The University of Minnesota has trained thousands of master gardeners of all ages, backgrounds and plant experience and each year, they contribute more than 140,000 hours of service in Minnesota communities.

To learn more about the program and apply, visit their website at or call (612) 625-9864. Completed applications are to be submitted by Oct. 1 at midnight. Application review will begin on Oct. 2 and applicants will be contacted before Dec. 1.