History
The University of California Master Gardener Program extends UC research-based information about home horticulture and pest management to the public. In exchange for the training and materials received from UC, master gardeners perform volunteer services in a myriad of venues. The Master Gardener Program is an example of an effective partnership between the University and motivated citizens. Because certified master gardeners represent UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE), they broaden UCCE's client base and sphere of influence. The Master Gardener Program is administered locally by participating UCCE county offices, the principal outreach and public service arm of the University's Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Nancy Garrison, former Urban Horticulture Program Coordinator with UCCE, started the program in Santa Clara County in 1982. We serve the people by the thousands of hours we commit through outreach projects and educational programs.
Specialties
Our Mission: To develop, adapt and extend research-based horticultural information and educational programs to the residents of Santa Clara County. General Information: We provide gardening hot lines in San Jose and Palo Alto, adult education through classes and talks, open gardens at our demonstration gardens around the county, and more to educate the residents of Santa Clara county on good gardening practices. Contact: Do you have home gardening questions? Read our tips on plant problem diagnosis first at our website. In Santa Clara County, contact the Master Gardener Hotline for gardening tips between 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday to Friday at 408-282-3105 or send us your question on-line. For gardeners in northern Santa Clara County, contact the Gamble Garden Master Gardener Hotline on Friday between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. at 650-329-1356.