Mission

The Tennessee Extension Master Gardener program and WCMGA seek to improve the lives of Tennesseans by promoting environmental stewardship, noncommercial food production, and human health and well-being through residential and consumer horticulture education delivered by a dedicated and skilled volunteer network. The WCMGA is part of the UT/TSU Williamson County Extension Office.

Values

WCMGA provides research-based residential horticulture education in a responsive and timely manner to extend the impact of UT/TSU Williamson County Extension. We collaborate with UT/TSU Extension personnel, local municipalities and grassroots and non-profit organizations to offer educational leadership for better horticulture practices and programs across Tennessee to foster a vibrant and effective learning environment that supports committed and engaged volunteers and attracts new TEMGs to the program. WCMGA encourages environmental stewardship, non-commercial food production and youth education across Tennessee through education and outreach. We raise funds and utilize membership dues to invest in educational tools and events that provide information to meet present needs while laying the foundation to serve Tennessee residents and communities in the future.

How We Do It

Community Questions and Diagnostics Needs

The UT/TSU Williamson County Extension receives thousands of horticulture-related calls each year through the Diagnostics Team desk. Williamson County Master Gardeners play a large role in assisting Extension Agents in meeting this demand.

Keeping History Alive

Historical sites often have a large need for grounds maintenance and historical preservation, but receive little assistance. WCMGs support and maintain the Period Enslaved and Historic House Garden at Carnton Plantation, Carter House and McLemore House in Williamson County. 

Spreading the Word

WCMGs man educational booths at local field days and fairs to connect with the public on a one-on-one basis. Additionally, the WCMGA also hosts an annual Garden Festival & Plant Sale as part of its community outreach and education efforts within Williamson County.

How Do I Become a Master Gardener in Williamson County?

WCMGA operates under a charter from Tennessee Extension Master Gardener through the UT/TSU Williamson County Extension Office.

Tennessee Extension Master Gardener classes are coordinated through the horticulture Extension Agent in Williamson County. In order to satisfy the ever-growing need for horticulture and gardening education, in-person classes are offered from January to April and participants must complete both 40 education hours and 40 hands-on Master Gardener project volunteer hours. Williamson County is one of the few in Tennessee that offers alternating daytime or evening classes depending on the year. For 2027, classes will be offered during the day and applications are closed as the class is full. Williamson County maintains an interest list that residents can sign up for at any time here. In the fall, our Williamson County Extension Agent contacts those on the interest list with the application and details for the following year's class. Applicants must complete the application prior to the deadline and interview with a current Master Gardener to be accepted into the program.