ABOUT US
Across the United States, the Extension Master Gardener℠ program trains volunteers in urban horticulture so that they can help members of their communities learn about plants and gardening.
Since 1979, North Carolina Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteers (EMGVs) have been leaders in this internationally acclaimed program, guiding members of the community in good gardening practices.
We provide research-based information about gardening and environmental stewardship to individuals and communities. Master Gardener volunteers engage the community through education and outreach on a wide variety of subjects and through a broad spectrum of projects.
In Orange County, we offer Dig Deeper gardening talks, youth programs and demonstration gardens. Visit us at the Carrboro and Eno River farmers’ markets, where volunteers are happy to talk to you about plants and gardening and provide useful information. And don’t miss our big event of the year, PlantFest. It includes a big plant sale and garden festival, with opportunities for adults and children to learn about growing plants.
Each Master Gardener volunteer in Orange County has completed a 14-week training class, with teaching from North Carolina State University faculty and staff, Extension agents and certified Master Gardener volunteers.
Once trained, every Master Gardener volunteer donates at least 30 hours of horticultural service each year and acquires at least 10 hours of continuing education per year. Want to become a Master Gardener volunteer?
If you live in another county in North Carolina, visit the NC State Extension website and click on County Centers to learn more about the Master Gardener program in your area.
ContacT US
Please call or email us if we can be of help. We’re happy to answer plant and gardening questions.
Email: ocmgardeners@gmail.com
Phone: 919-245-2061 (leave message)
Our mailing address: P.O. Box 8181, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Our physical address (across from the DMV office): Orange County Extension Office, Bonnie B. Davis Environment and Agricultural Center, 1020 US Highway 70 West, Hillsborough, NC, 27278.
SUPPORT US
The Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Association of Orange County, NC supports our Master Gardener program by managing the financial aspects of Master Gardener volunteer projects and activities. The association is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization established exclusively for evidence-based educational and charitable purposes.
The NC State Extension and our Master Gardener program provide direct service to the public through educational programs and outreach. The Association supports the Extension Service and Master Gardener program through fundraising, donations and grant solicitation as well as financial management.
If you are interested in learning about ways to support our Master Gardener volunteer program, please visit the association’s website.