Master Gardeners

Mission

The mission of the Pinellas County Master Gardener program is to maintain a pool of Highly trained volunteers who will serve as an extension of the Natural Resources Department. Master Gardeners offer education to the citizens of Pinellas County on environmentally sound Florida Friendly Landscape practices based on the latest University of Florida / IFAS research data, as well as provide support to 4-H and other youth programs.

The Pinellas County Master Gardener Program began in 1982 and to date has provided training to hundreds of volunteers enabling them to become Certified Master Gardeners.Master Gardeners have played an important role in the development of the teaching landscape that surrounds the Pinellas County Extension facility. Additionally, many Master Gardeners volunteer their time to projects such as school gardening education, assisting with 4-H programming, presenting educational programs, and leading tours of The Florida Botanical Gardens for adults and children.

Prior training, education, and gardening knowledge are not needed for selection to the Master Gardener training program. A sincere desire to learn and help others and a personal commitment to volunteer service are the main traits needed.

Awards & Accomplishments

Florida State Master Gardener Award of Excellence

Service to 4-H and Other Youth – 2001 | General Achievement – 2003 | Extension Awareness – 2005 | Special Audiences - 2006

Pinellas County Partners in Public Service Awards

Individual Awards – 2000, 2003, 2006, 2007 | Group Awards – 2002, 2004, 2005, 2007(3)

Green Thumb Award of Excellence

Individual Awards – 2001, 2004

Pinellas Chapter of the Native Plant Society

Chapter Award of Excellence – 2005

Frontier Elementary School

Favorite Forrester Award - 2000