Registration for the 2026-27 course will open on Wednesday August 5.
The 2026-27 course will run on Saturdays from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm, starting on Saturday, October 17, 2026 and ending April 10, 2026 (excepting holidays). The course is split into 2 parts (A&B) for those who aren’t sure or are unable to commit to the whole program in one year. See below for more information.
The Master Gardener program is perfect for those interested in learning more about the art and science of gardening such as botany, plant care, propagation, pest and weed management, sustainable gardening techniques, basic garden design and more. It is both theoretical and practical, taught by horticulturists, experienced practitioners and industry experts. Participants are encouraged to work together as a group in order to enhance knowledge and to solve problems. Different perspectives enrich the discussions and the learning experience. This non-credit program is designed to train volunteers who then can share their knowledge in the community.
Are you looking for a challenge?
The Master Gardener program provides a broad scientific base of knowledge for gardeners. Expert speakers will help bolster student understanding of garden care and diversification.
Community participation
Participants network to share knowledge and create a community of like-minded learners. They will join a bigger body of Master Gardeners across the continent who have the knowledge and tools to provide gardening guidance and assistance to the public and institutions.
Program commitment
This program will challenge participants and requires a serious investment of time. Students are led through an intensive program with assignments, discussion posts and a volunteer practicum of forty hours. Each week students will be required to do some pre-reading. As well a journal, discussion post or assignment will be due each week.
Those students choosing to do the online option must have a computer with the capacity to run Zoom as well as a camera and be willing to turn on their camera for activities and labs at minimum.
All students will be required to use the online learning management system (Skillbuilder) at least once per week to access resources, submit work and participate in online discussions as part of their marks.
Prerequisites
Required: Secondary (High School) Education is required. Some post-secondary school (education or experience) is an asset.
Recommended: Since the Master Gardener Program covers a variety of topics and is scientifically challenging, attending the prerequisite courses is recommended to help ease the transition into the program. The recommended prerequisite course is Introduction to Woody ID which runs in September/October. Calgary Gardening Fundamentals is also helpful to any beginner/novice gardener wishing to take the Master Gardener Program in the future. Garden Fundamentals is being offered ON DEMAND (watch when is convenient for you—click the link above to register).
Schedule
See the 2026/2027 program details and schedule.
Location and Cost
The in-person class location for this year is Bethany Chapel (near Mount Royal) – 3333 Richardson Way SW (West entrance, in the Fellowship Room).
Online classes will use Zoom.
Note that students may attend some classes in-person and others online – please select the option you anticipate using the most.
The online learning management system for both groups is SkillbuilderR . This system is cloud-based so should work on the majority of devices.
Please note that the class (both online and in-person participants) will use the learning management system to connect as a group. This platform will host notes and other resources, homework (including questions about it), volunteer opportunities, job postings and any other pertinent opportunities. An invitation to the platform will be provided two weeks prior to class start. It can be used on a phone but weekly or bi-weekly computer access is ideal.
Costs: $200 + GST registration fee (due with application, non-refundable) + course fee:
Course fee:
$1050 +GST for both Part A and B together (due Sept 30).
or $575+ GST for Part A only (due Sept 30). If student chooses to continue they would be charged another $575 + GST to take Part B in 2027 (due Jan 6). Prices may change in subsequent years.
Online payment will be available by August 5 or can be made on or after that date by calling the office: 403.287.3469.
Need a bit more information? Please refer to the FAQs or contact the coordinator by email: mastergardener@calhort.org or call the office 403.287.3469.
Application Form
The online application form can be found here – you may choose to register early but all registrations will be reviewed as of Aug 5 or as they are received after that date. The Registration Fee ($200) is due by Aug 5 or with your application to hold your spot – online payment coming soon or call our office at 403.287.3469. Registration closes Sept 30.
Frequently Ask Questions
Still have questions? Visit the Master Gardener Frequently Asked Questions page.
