The NC State Extension Master Gardener℠ program isn't just about growing plants—it's about growing healthier communities through volunteer service that delivers sustainable gardening education and community outreach.

In 2024, over 4,000 passionate Extension Master Gardener volunteers shared their knowledge and love for gardening with nearly 300,000 North Carolinians, delivering practical education and trusted, research-based advice through their service with N.C. Cooperative Extension. From plant clinics and school gardens to pollinator habitats and gardening workshops, these volunteers helped people grow smarter, greener, and healthier.

Working under the guidance of county-based Extension educators, Master Gardener volunteers contributed a remarkable 236,276 hours of service in 2024—the equivalent of 113 full-time employees and a contribution valued at over $7 million in support of Extension’s mission.

In addition to serving their communities through volunteer work, Master Gardener volunteers are committed to ongoing learning, ensuring they provide the most up-to-date, research-based gardening information. In 2024, volunteers completed an impressive 65,154 hours of continuing education—applying new knowledge directly through classes, clinics, and community projects.

We also welcomed 674 new volunteers, each of whom completed a minimum of 40 hours of initial training led by their local Extension educators. These new volunteers are expanding our impact and bringing fresh ideas and energy to our statewide network.

Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and the leadership of Extension staff, the NC State Extension Master Gardener program continues to flourish—connecting people with the joy and benefits of sustainable gardening while building stronger, more resilient communities across North Carolina.

Join, support, or connect with Extension Master Gardener volunteers in your community.