How UW Extension makes Masters out of Gardeners
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 2
When I decided to become a Master Gardener, I thought the benefit would be some home-grown vegetables and colorful native wildflowers. Having been an avid hobbyist for years, I learned from my successes, and more frequent failures, while trying to establish a beautiful and nourishing backyard. What I learned in the Master Gardener training changed my view of biodiversity and how it benefits every different kind of life in one place and how they all work together to keep nature alive and healthy. It was a surprise and an epiphany.
I was surprised to learn that being a Master Gardener is so much more than growing a garden. I never measured what the word “master” would imply. The definition of the word master most commonly refers to an expert, a person with control or authority and advanced learning. The online “Foundations in Gardening” training course, which provides the science-based research to become a certified master gardener, is provided by the University of Wisconsin Division of Extension which is the community outreach and public engagement arm of the University of Wisconsin system. The expertise and experience of the Extension staff and specialists provide a powerful foundation for preparation and knowledge. While I may not have achieved mastery, I embrace the journey to achieve new goals for all levels of life in my garden from micro-organisms in the soil to seed heads which feed the birds. I have found my tribe among a community of like-minded, enthusiastic mentors who love learning.
I learned about the Wisconsin Idea which signifies that a general principle of the University of Wisconsin is for education to influence people’s lives beyond the boundaries of the campus. Master Gardeners provide a link by offering deep horticultural education, strong community connections, meaningful volunteer opportunities and a local environmental impact. A certified Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener acts as a trained volunteer educator who extends horticulture knowledge to the public.
After completing the UW Extension course, my knowledge continues to grow by earning 10 hours of continuing education and 24 hours of volunteer engagement each year to maintain my certification. Thanks to the Door County Master Gardeners community and support, I am anxiously awaiting the first taste of the heirloom tomatoes I grew from seeds provided by the Door County Seed Library. My heart is happy when I look at the blooming native wildflowers which were sown in milk cartons over the winter. I have established a bee lawn to provide for the pollinators. The diverse experience, volunteerism and knowledge of the Door County Master Gardeners working together makes an impact on the health and sustainability of the green spaces we cherish. Join us?
