Become a Santa Fe Extension Master Gardener

A Santa Fe Extension Master Gardener is a person who has been trained in basic horticulture by the New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service, and in return, shares that knowledge with others in the community. Once trained, Extension Master Gardeners volunteer their time, experience, and knowledge in a variety of Santa Fe Extension Master Gardeners’ (SFEMG) programs.

Two Tracks to Fit Your Goals

The application period for the 2026 intern training program is closed.

The online application for the 2027 intern training program will be available starting October 1, 2026

Note: Being on the waitlist does not guarantee you a spot. An email reminder will be sent the week before registration starts.

Interested in the statewide Master Gardener initiative from New Mexico State University? Click here to explore more details.

Extension training varies by county. In Santa Fe County, we favor local residents. Questions?

Call the Santa Fe County Extension Service at (505) 471-4711.

Which Track is Right for You?

Interns watching a Randall Davey Audubon Center Master Gardener project presentation during one of the Intern Program project expos

Track 1: Santa Fe Extension Master Gardener

Best for: Educating others, joining events, and building community impact

Santa Fe Extension Master Gardener Certification

Volunteer Hours: 20+ during internship year; 30+ per year after to maintain certification.

Program Format: Asynchronous online modules + weekly live Zoom video conference Q&A plus several required in-person sessions

Course Structure: 15 weekly modules (early January - mid-April); Modules open Saturday 12 AM; Quizzes due Sunday 11:59 PM; ~5-6 hours/week, 70%+ pass required (up to 3 attempts).

Time Commitment: 5 - 6 hours/week (modules) + volunteer hours

Fee: $250

Ongoing Requirements: Yes (annual service + $35 dues per year)

Interns watching a Santa Fe Compost Action Team (SCAT) Master Gardener project presentation during one of the Intern Program project expos

Track 2: Santa Fe Gardener Certificate

Best for: Learning sustainable high-desert gardening for your own garden or career.

Santa Fe Gardener Certificate

Volunteer Hours: None

Program Format: Asynchronous online modules only

Course Structure: 15 weekly modules (early January - mid-April); Modules open Saturday 12 AM; Quizzes due Sunday 11:59 PM; ~5-6 hours/week, 70%+ pass required (up to 3 attempts).

Time Commitment: 5 - 6 hours/week (modules only)

Fee: $350

Ongoing Requirements: None

Both tracks provide New Mexico State University research-based education on topics critical to Santa Fe:

drought tolerance, soil health in arid conditions, native plants, and efficient water use.

No prior expertise needed - just enthusiasm for gardening!

Technical Requirements