Ready to turn your passion for gardening into community impact?
Joining the Okanagan Master Gardeners (OMG) Basic Training Program (BTP) is the first step to becoming a Master Gardener in the Okanagan region. This comprehensive training equips enthusiastic home gardeners to become volunteer educators, sharing knowledge with the public and enhancing green spaces across the region.
2022 OMG BTP Basic Details
Here aer the key logistical details for the 2022 Okanagan Master Gardeners Basic Training Program (BTP):
- Program Dates: September 10 – December 10, 2022
- Class Schedule: Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m (all in-person)
- Location: Trinity Church, Kelowna, BC
- Cost: $600, which includes tuition, textbooks, and reference materials
Information Sessions
Attending an information session for the 2022 BTP is your first step to becoming a Master Gardener in the Okanagan region. Choose one of the following dates:
- April 23, 2022
- May 7, 2022
- May 21, 2022
These sessions provide essential details about the program, including a short quiz to assess your gardening knowledge.
Contact the Okanagan Master Gardeners to register.
View the 2022 OMG BTP Brochure here.
What does it take to become a Master Gardener?
Here are the prerequisites and Basic Training Program requirements.
Prerequisites
A strong interest in gardening and a willingness to share knowledge and enthusiasm with the public.
Attend an information session and complete a qualifying quiz.
Commit to volunteering for 3–6 hours per session on weekends (typically Saturdays or Sundays) for a total of 65 hours over two years, guided by experienced Master Gardeners.
Basic Training Requirements
- Participate in 12 Saturdays of training from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Complete weekly reading and research assignments (approximately 10 hours per week).
- Successfully complete all assignments and achieve at least 80% on the final exam.
Master Gardener Certification
Successfully complete the Basic Training Program.
Fulfill 65 volunteer hours and 5 continuing education hours within two years.
Maintaining Certification
After certification, complete 15 volunteer hours and 5 continuing education hours annually to retain your Master Gardener status.
