Master Gardener Volunteer Training Advances Sustainable Landscaping and Health Wellness Outcomes
Extension Education
Lisa Strange
Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
UF/IFAS Extension
Perry
Abstract
The University of Florida Extension Master Gardener Volunteer (MGV) training program prepares volunteers to educate communities about sustainable landscaping and environmental stewardship across both urban and rural regions of Florida. A comparison of participant outcomes between a highly populated Central Florida county and a sparsely populated North Florida county revealed minimal differences in overall program impact despite contrasting population densities. Volunteers in both regions reported high satisfaction with the training provided by Extension agents and MGV coordinators and demonstrated similar increases in horticultural and environmental knowledge, along with strong intentions to adopt and promote Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ practices.
The objective of this study was to enhance Master Gardener Volunteers’ skills in sustainable landscaping techniques while assessing the social and health benefits associated with program participation. All participants completed the minimum required volunteer service hours, and their involvement produced notable personal and community benefits. Program volunteers extend the reach of Extension by providing one-on-one assistance at help desks and plant clinics, offering public presentations, and teaching horticulture topics at libraries, garden clubs, and community centers.
In fall 2025, a survey was conducted to evaluate gardening practices and perceived social and health benefits among Master Gardener Volunteers. Survey results from 93 volunteers across two counties indicated strong adoption of sustainable landscape practices. Reported practices included integrated pest management strategies (80%), reduced pesticide use (83%), reduced fertilizer use (68%), reduced water use (91%), and active support for pollinators (97%).
Volunteers also reported substantial personal benefits from program participation. Approximately 76% indicated improved overall health, 80% reported increased self-esteem, 91% strengthened their research skills, 80% experienced improved mental health, 83% developed high-quality social relationships, and 74% reported reduced stress. With more than 8,000 volunteer hours valued at nearly $300,000, the program represents a significant contribution to community service. Overall, results demonstrate that the Master Gardener Volunteer program provides consistent educational, environmental, and social benefits regardless of regional population differences while enhancing volunteers’ well-being and strengthening their role as valuable assets to UF/IFAS Extension.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted only for display at AM/PIC. Poster is not to be judged, but the abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: Lisa Strange, Tia Saracino
-
Strange, L. Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent, University of Florida Taylor County Extension, Florida, 32348
-
Saracino, T. Residential Horticulture Extension Agent, University of Florida Hillsborough County Extension, Florida, 33584