Master Gardeners are trained individuals who enjoy learning and sharing their expertise with others. Our gardening backgrounds range from hobbyist to professional, from beginner to experienced, from young adult to senior citizen. The common bond is a love of gardening, learning and sharing.

After training, Master Gardeners serve as a resource with University of Missouri Extension to give county residents research-based answers to their gardening questions. The primary purpose of a Master Gardener is to volunteer, but members rate camaraderie and learning opportunities as important reasons for participating.

Call 573-369-2394(opens in new window) for information about the next class session.

Meeting dates and speaker schedule

The Lake Area Master Gardeners meet at 6:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month (unless otherwise noted). The meeting location varies, so please check Lake Area Master Gardener newsletters for date, time and location of meetings. Note: We do not cancel meeting due to weather. Please use your own judgment in determining whether to attend.

Scholarships available

The goal of the Lake Area Master Gardeners Scholarship is to provide aid to students of higher education in the area of horticulture, landscape design, environmental sciences, forestry, entomology, botany, agriculture, and other related fields. The amount awarded for the scholarship will depend upon club fundraising success.

Master gardeners gardening

Get in-depth horticultural training and join the Master Gardeners in “helping others learn to grow.”

Missouri map with a dogwood flower overlaid on it

Missouri Master Gardeners, use this online system to report your volunteer hours.

garden journal on table with gloves

Put your plans, thoughts and results on paper to help ensure successful gardening.