Become a Master Gardener

A Little About Vancouver Island Master Gardeners

The Vancouver Island Master Gardeners Association (VIMGA) is a volunteer service organization operating from Mill Bay north to Campbell River. As a chapter of the Master Gardeners Association of BC (MGABC), VIMGA’s mission is to educate the gardening public with current, science-based, and environmentally responsible horticultural information. We are your neighbours and members of your communities. Our program and priorities inform our efforts to shape healthy communities and a healthy planet.

VIMGA is comprised of 4 districts.

Three Stages to Becoming a Certified Master Gardener

  • The first stage involves completing course work offered through Vancouver Island University (VIU) under the course title Master Gardener Program. VIMGA, with support from VIU, designates the course material that is presented in a hybrid delivery format with both online and in person classes. The material is a comprehensive collection of science-based information and best practices for the home gardener. Details of the topics covered, plus other information about the program, are available at: https://pdt.viu.ca/master-gardener-program.
    • Note: The application and intake for the January 2026 course through VIU are now closed. We encourage those interested to consider the next course that will be offered beginning in January, 2028. To ensure you are on the list to receive application information, email PDTCowichan@viu.ca.
  • The second stage is joining VIMGA by:
    • completing and submitting the VIMGA Membership Application to membership@vimga.org
    • paying the $10 membership fee by e-transfer to treasurer@vimga.org (Note: the fee is $40/year in all subsequent years)
  • The third stage involves completing a 2-year VIMGA Master Gardener in Training program. During this time, interns:
    • complete 65 hours of mentored volunteer service providing advice and education to the public at organized venues
    • complete 10 hours of continuing education in the second year
    • complete a Plant ID Project
  • Upon completion of the above requirements, VIU will present you with a certificate of designation as a Certified Master Gardener.

Learn more about various aspects of the
2-year intern experiences by clicking here.

Certified Master Gardeners from Other Jurisdictions Joining VIMGA

Please email a copy of your certification and a completed VIMGA Membership Application to membership@vimga.org. If you no longer have a copy, email the jurisdiction and the year in which you earned your certification and we will help track it down. Pay the $40 membership fee by e-transfer to treasurer@vimga.org.

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