Saskatchewan Since 1989, Saskatchewan Master Gardeners have been sponsored by the Extension Division, University of Saskatchewan. About 240 master gardeners are scattered throughout the province, working with local communities, but reporting to the Extension Division in Saskatoon. Master gardeners from all over the province flock to the city for this annual highlight. They assist with landscaping, staff children's sessions, make presentations and run their own booth. Master gardeners are certified after completing a home-study course, five workshops and 40 hours of volunteer duties.
Instructors are staff from the university's horticulture department.
To maintain master gardener status, volunteers complete at least 20 volunteer hours annually and attend an update workshop once every three years. Ontario Begun in 1985, the Ontario program is run by Master Gardeners of Ontario, Inc., based in Guelph. This is the largest Canadian program, with about 800 volunteers among 36 groups. The largest events members take part in are Canada Blooms in March, the Canadian National Exhibition in August, and the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in November, all Toronto-based. Trainees are also required to attend at least four monthly meetings.