Extension Master Gardener Volunteers (EMG)

2026 Extension Master Gardener Class


Heritage Garden - Dallas Park
We are now accepting applications for the 2026 Master Gardener class.  To learn more about the program visit the 2026 Extension Master Gardener Class page.

EMG Infoline


We are Master Gardener volunteers assisting N.C. Cooperative Extension's Gaston County Center in providing prompt and insightful answers to gardening inquiries from the general public.

The Infoline process allows for the public to seek advice from the Extension Master Gardener Volunteers by leaving a phone message at704-922-2138 or email questions and supporting photos to gastonemgv@gmail.com annually from April-October.
Our Extension Master Gardener volunteers assist the Cooperative Extenion's Gaston County Center in providing prompt and insightful answers to gardening inquires from the general public.

Community Seed Bank


The Community Seed Bank has been established by N.C. Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteers of Gaston County in partnership with the Gaston County Public Library. Our goal is to ensure access to vegetable, flower and herb seeds and inspire community members to garden.


In 2024 all branches of the Gaston County Public Library will have a selection of seasonal seeds. The seed banks officially start back on February 1 and will have cool season crops along with peppers and tomatoes!


We also encourage you to save seeds from your successful crops to share with others by donating back to the seed bank at the end of the season. Seeds are available February - October.


For questions about the Seed Bank, contact 704-922-2111 

Where is EMG in the Community?


Extension Master Gardener Volunteers at a booth.

The EMG Volunteers can be found weekly on Saturdays from 8am-12pm during April -October at the Mount Holly Farmers Market and the Gastonia Farmers Market. Here you can meet our Volunteers, get your gardening questions answered, pick up soil sample kits, see what programming is coming up and so much more! You can also find a Community Seed Bank onsite as well!

Other places you may find our Volunteers throughout Gaston County in many other places like Webb Street School, Creative Opportunities Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, Keep Gastonia Beautiful, the Gastonia Rotary Garden, Keep Belmont Beautiful and more!

How can I become an Extension Master Gardener Volunteer?


Coursework will be completed virtually and there will be one in-person meeting per week. A course fee is required to participate.

To learn more email cpflower@ncsu.edu.