Become a Master Gardener Volunteer

The Ohio State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program provides intensive training in horticulture to interested Ohio residents, who then volunteer their time assisting with educational programs and activities for Ohio residents through their local OSU Extension County office. Volunteers are not required to have gardening skills or knowledge; but a passion for learning about gardening and sharing this knowledge with others is a must!

Working with county Extension personnel, Master Gardener Volunteers provide such educational services to their communities as: answering gardening questions from the public; conducting plant clinics; gardening activities with children, senior citizens, or disabled persons; beautifying the community; and developing community or demonstration gardens.

The Next Training Class will occur in the spring of 2026 with 50 hours of classroom training. Fifty volunteer hours serving the public is then to be done in 2026-2027.

To become a Pickaway County Master Gardener Volunteer you will:
1. Contact Lynn (740-497-4384) or email (lhuston@columbus.rr.com). 

2. Complete 50 hours of intensive training your first year.

3.Complete a background check.

4.Complete 50 hours of volunteer service your first two years.

5.To remain an active member after the first year, complete 10 continuing education hours, 20 hours of volunteer service on a yearly basis, pay a $20 State/ County support fee, and review policies on a yearly basis.

For More Information about State-Level Master Gardener Volunteer programs and activities is available at mastergardener.osu.edu.

Current Volunteer Opportunities in Pickaway County

Ask a Master Gardener Volunteer (online)

Founders Day Celebration

Horticulture Helpline

Judges for contests or fairs

Ohio Heritage Garden Ambassador

Local Park or other Public Space

Phenology Garden

Plant clinics, diagnostic clinics

Plant Sale

Presentations, educational programs

Therapeutic horticulture

Youth work

Social Media