By Andi Anderson
Purdue Extension has announced the 2026 statewide virtual Master Gardener Basic Training, an opportunity for individuals across Indiana to learn foundational gardening skills and prepare for volunteer service within their local communities.
The program will be held on Tuesdays from February 3 through May 5, 2026. Live webinar sessions will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 PM Eastern Time, which is 5:30 to 7:30 PM Central Time.
These sessions will introduce participants to essential horticulture topics and provide guidance from trained Purdue Extension specialists. A final exam will be administered after May 5 for all enrolled participants.
In addition to the statewide online webinars, each county will host a weekly connection hour for participants. This local meeting will be led by the county’s Extension Master Gardener coordinator and may be held in person, online, or as a combination of both formats.
The schedule and location for this connection hour will vary by county, allowing flexibility for participants and adapting to local needs. These sessions help reinforce webinar lessons through discussions, activities, and guidance tailored to local gardening conditions.
The Master Gardener Program is supported by the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture and is part of Purdue Extension’s mission to provide community education.
The training prepares volunteers to share research-based gardening information with schools, community groups, and local residents. Participants learn about plant science, soils, pests, diseases, and environmentally responsible gardening practices.
According to the event listing, the date appears as February 2, 2026, from 5 to 7 AM IST when viewed in international time zones. However, individuals within Indiana should follow the evening Eastern and Central Time schedule outlined by Purdue Extension.
This training opportunity allows aspiring gardeners to learn from experts, connect with other plant enthusiasts, and gain the knowledge needed to serve their communities. Those interested are encouraged to follow Purdue Extension announcements for registration information and program updates as the start date approaches.
Photo Credit: pexels-greta-hoffman
Categories: Indiana, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables, Education