2026 In-Person training, will be held at the Extension Office in Danville, IL. Note three of the classes will be held at the Champaign Extension Office. The location is off campus with plenty of free parking.
In-Person Class:
The classes will run from February through April 2026, weekly, on Tuesdays, during the day.
Interest forms must be received by January 20, 2026, to be considered for the 2026 class.
The fee for the in-person class is $200.
If you wish to take MG Training classes, please answer questions below and submitthis interest form.
Once you submit this interest form:
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.
If accepted into the volunteer program, you will be asked to complete several Online forms as required by the State Master Gardener program. Paperwork must be completed online.
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.
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.
Upon completion of the MG Internship, you become a certified Active Master Gardener!
Additional Information:
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.
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.