Master Gardener

All Master Gardener Content

many hands raised in the air with sky background and the word volunteer

Volunteers

SDSU Extension volunteers participate in a variety of service programs through our organization, helping us expand the scope and effectiveness of our mission. In exchange for their service, volunteers receive training on a wide array of topics of interest to them. 

woman showing bugs to a group of adult learners

SDSU Extension Master Gardener Online Reporting System

Better Impact is a web-based tool where Master Gardeners can log their hours, update their contact information, see the latest news, and much more.

Woman browsing a digital tablet in her garden.

SDSU Extension Master Gardener Program Volunteer Policy Guide

This guide offers current and prospective SDSU Extension Master Gardeners information on: applying for the program, maintaining certification, categorizing and reporting service hours, understanding the various levels of volunteer service and much more!

A group of Custer County Master Gardener volunteers gathered for a group photo.

Becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer

If you enjoy gardening, volunteering, and helping your community, the Master Gardener program may be for you!

Three bright red and green apples ready for harvest

Brookings Master Gardener donating 30 apple trees to local youth

March 24, 2026

A Brookings-area Master Gardener is donating 30 apple trees to local youth for the sixth annual Fruitful Children Project.

A young master gardener setting up a “make your own seed bomb” station at a seed swap.

How to Organize a Seed Swap

A seed swap is a gathering of people who come together to share seeds, including vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Learn some tips on planning a seed swap event to help build excitement for the upcoming growing season!

fruit and vegetable garden with raised beds

Vegetable Gardening in South Dakota

Whatever your reasons to start a vegetable garden: fresh produce with great flavor, exercise, saving money, enticing children (and adults) to eat healthier food, or knowing where your food came from and how it was grown, this booklet will help you with basic information and tips to get started.

Women look through potted plants on a table in a classroom

Registration open for 2026 SDSU Extension Master Gardener training

January 29, 2026

Registration is open for the 2026 South Dakota State University Extension Master Gardener training that will be offered from April 1 to July 31, 2026.

sketch of Earl Dailey

Earl Dailey Memorial Endowment Grants

View the criteria and applications for the Earl Dailey Memorial Endowment Professional Improvement Grant and Project Grant.

Group of volunteers working in a garden center.

Master Gardener Volunteer Program

SDSU Extension’s Master Gardener program develops gardening enthusiasts into expert volunteers who share their research-based knowledge with community members across the state.