Master Gardener Interest Form Vermilion County

• The next in-person class will run from February through April 2026.  Classes will be held weekly, on Tuesdays, during the day.
• Interest forms must be received by January 5, 2026, to be considered for the 2026 class.
• The fee for the in-person class is $200.  If you want to take the in-person class, submit this interest form.

• Registration for the next Summer session will be open from April 1 to May 18, 2026, and the course begins on June 8, 2026.  The registration form will be available starting on April 1, 2026, here: go.illinois.edu/IllinoisGardenerTraining

1. Your form will be reviewed, and you will be sent an invitation for an interview..  This form does not guarantee acceptance into the training program.  There are a limited number of spots for the upcoming in-person class.  Your payment and completed paperwork reserve your place in the classroom.
2. If accepted into the volunteer program, you will be asked to complete several forms as required by the State Master Gardener program.  Paperwork must be completed online.
3. Completing all of the classes (60 hours of instruction at 4-6 hours per week on average) is mandatory to become a certified Active Master Gardener.  Class topics include Insects, Soil, Plant Diseases, Vegetables, Fruits, Trees, Shrubs, Flowers, and more. It is necessary to complete all classes to become a Master Gardener Intern.  It is possible to make up a class, if necessary, and approved by the coordinator.
4. You have 2 years following your training course to complete a 40-hour MG Internship at a wide variety of approved projects. Established projects include helping with fundraisers, working with children or veterans, a Speakers Bureau, and planting and tending community gardens.  Most Master Gardeners complete the internship in their first year- it is much easier than it sounds! Unfortunately, we are not taking on new projects at this time in order to honor current commitments.
5. Upon completion of the MG Internship, you become a certified Active Master Gardener!

• Need-based financial assistance is available in limited amounts. There is a separate form required.  Please contact the Vermilion County Extension Office at 217-300-2616 to obtain the Financial Assistance Form.  The deadline to request financial assistance is Dec. 15, 2025.
• We accept payment by check or credit card.
• We will offer a mentor program where you will be paired with an active Vermilion County Master Gardener to ask questions and help lead you through the classes and internship. They will also help you become familiar with our projects and events.