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Master Gardeners are residents of the local community who take an active interest in gardening and in sharing their knowledge with others. Our mission as Master Gardener Extension Volunteers is to assist UGA Extension in providing research-based horticultural information and services to our community.
Is This Program a Good Fit for You?
- Do you want to learn more about the culture and maintenance of many types of plants?
- Do you look forward to sharing your knowledge with people in your community?
- Do you have enough time to attend training and complete the volunteer service?
- If you answered yes to these questions, the Master Gardener program could be for you!
Become a 2027 Master Gardener?
Applications for 2027 are now open! Review the information below and apply today!
Dear Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Applicant,
Thank you for your interest in the University of Georgia Master Gardener Extension Volunteer (MGEV) Program in Cobb County.
More than a gardening class, MGEV is UGA’s educational outreach program that trains volunteers to become trusted sources of research-based horticultural information. Through classroom instruction, hands-on learning, and volunteer service, you will deepen your own gardening knowledge while helping others succeed — all while joining a welcoming community of fellow lifelong learners.
At its heart, the Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Program is an educational service program. We don’t just learn for our own gardens; we learn so we can confidently share research-based horticultural information, inspire others, and serve the citizens of Cobb County.
We welcome applicants of all experience levels. Curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to serve matter more than having all the answers.
On this page is the application for the 2027 Cobb training class, along with details on expectations, requirements, and key dates. Please note that applying does NOT guarantee acceptance — applications are reviewed, and qualified applicants are invited to interview.
Thank you for considering the Cobb County MGEV Program. Together, we can cultivate knowledge, inspire others, and help our community grow.
Sincerely,
Niki Buchanan
Program Assistant, Agriculture & Natural Resources
Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Coordinator
UGA Extension – Cobb County
This process is handled by Extension Offices since it is the local offices that conduct the Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Program training course. Included in this step is the completion of an application and three character references (as you will be certified to work with children). An interview with the local Extension Office may follow.
- Program fee: $225; due by November 3, 2026
- Application period: August 1 – 31, 2026
- Character references: three people unrelated to you need to fill this form out and return to you. Bring the completed forms with you to your scheduled interview
- Interview dates: September 16 & 24, October 9, 2026
- Luncheon for accepted applicants: November 10, 2026
This step prepares selected MGEV Trainees for their volunteer role. MGEV Trainees complete 42 hours of core horticultural training and two exams.
- Dates: January 7 – April 9, 2027; Thursdays from 9 AM – 3:30 PM
- Location: UGA Extension – Cobb County, 678 South Cobb Drive, Marietta, GA 30060
- Midterm Review: February 16, 2027, from 9 – 11 AM
- Intern Field Trips: March 16 & 23, 2027
- Final Review: April 5, 2027
Within the first year after training, the MGEV Trainee completes 50 hours of volunteer service. After completing 50 hours on Extension-approved projects that support MGEV program initiatives, the Trainee is recognized as an official MGEV.
To remain a current, active MGEV, volunteers give at least 25 hours of volunteer service each year and track their accomplishments using an online recordkeeping system.
Cobb County’s MGEV program has two annual fundraising events that most of the membership participates in: the Plant Sale & Expo (April 17 – 18, 2027, at Jim Miller Park) and the Garden Tour (May 8, 2027).
