Recertification Requirements

In order to maintain certification, master gardeners must remain on active status. This requires ten hours of continuing education updates and 20 hours of volunteer service each year. To document completion of these requirements, master gardeners are required to report their hours online to the state by using the Volunteer Time Tracking System (VTTS).

To use this system, master gardeners must first claim their account using the link that was emailed. If you have questions or need assistance, contact Kathie Hayden at Click here to show mail address or 847-835-8362.

Hours should be reported no later than December 31 of each year. You may post hours to the VTTS on a regular or monthly basis, or at the end of the year. Please report all hours, above and beyond the required hours, so the state has an accurate record of all volunteer and education hours provided by master gardeners to the community and the state of Illinois.

Education Updates

There are many opportunities available for master gardeners to fulfill their continuing education requirements. The Garden and local U. of I. Extension offices offer courses that can apply for credit toward the ten-hour requirement. Horticulture-related courses taken at other institutions may also qualify; however, master gardeners must get approval. Another way to fulfill the education requirement is to attend the State Master Gardener Conference held in late summer or fall each year. Approved courses offered at the Garden are also available. You can report your education hours individually to the VTTS after each class, or at the end of the year.

Current master gardeners are asked to complete a Volunteer Agreement Waiver and a Code of Conduct at the beginning of each year for the state office. These forms can be completed and filed online.