2026 Junior Master Gardener National Leader Training

Know before you go! Please review the 2026 Junior Master Gardener NLT Registration Details and Technology Requirements before you enroll.

The 2026 Junior Master Gardener National Leader Training (2026 JMG NLT) will be a dynamic, virtual & interactive training conference designed to assist participants in establishing a growing, sustainable school and youth garden-based programs.

This popular conference event, targeted at teachers/administrators, Extension faculty/staff/volunteers, and garden/nutrition/health programs and organizations, is exclusively accessible through a fun, engaging, and proven online format.

The 2026 JMG NLT attendees will:

• Become very familiar with all proven Junior Master Gardener curricula/research-based resources through hands-on breakout sessions 
• Effectively implement best practices, garden/project-based learning, and manage students/groups  
• Access class/group registration, recognition, and certification options  
• Involve local county Extension, volunteers, and parents in your youth garden programming  
• Reach into schools, after-school programs/clubs to introduce and cultivate new programs  
• Generate funding to support programs  
• Utilize program resources and marketing materials 
• Build long-term sustainability through community collaborations and partnerships

The 2026 JMG NLT Conference Tracks include:

1. Implementing JMG Research-based Curricula
2. Game-changing AI & Technology in Your School/Youth Gardening Program
3. Cultivating Garden-based Literature Connections 
4. Growing Sustainability in Your School/Youth Gardening Program

Conference Dates and Times

Day 1 - Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026 - noon - 5:30 p.m. (CST)

Day 2 - Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026 - 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. (CST)

Location

• Virtual