Penn State Extension Master Gardener Program

The Penn State Extension Master Gardener Program empowers volunteer horticulturists across Pennsylvania to promote sustainable gardening practices and environmental stewardship in their communities. Based at University Park, this volunteer-driven program combines university-level horticultural training with hands-on educational outreach, helping residents make informed decisions about native plants, invasive species management, and pollinator conservation. Through research-based initiatives, Master Gardeners engage the public via garden hotlines, educational speakers, demonstration gardens, and community service projects, while fostering ecological awareness about the benefits and challenges of native plant landscaping. The program serves as a critical bridge between Penn State University's agricultural expertise and community-level environmental education, supporting habitat restoration efforts and promoting best practices in sustainable horticulture throughout the Commonwealth.