Before You Contact a Master Gardener Helpline

To get the most accurate diagnosis, here are some guidelines and a few simple questions you should be prepared to answer when contacting us. Please also visit the Lawn & Garden FAQ to find more information for caring for your garden and landscape.

Plant Problems

1. What is the reason you need a diagnosis?
2. If known, what is name of plant; if not known what type (tree, shrub, perennial)
3. Does the plant produce flowers or fruit?
4. Where is the plant located? Is location sunny or shady, wet or dry?
5. How long has plant been in its current location?
6. What chemicals or fertilizers have been used? Is mulch used?
7. Inspect entire plant for symptoms. Problems can be more complex then they first appear
8. When did symptoms first appear?

Pests

1. Are pests just a nuisance or are they causing harm to people or property?
2. Where is highest concentration of pests?
3. When did pest first appear?
4. Describe pest (size, wings, number of legs, color, etc.).

Guidelines for Email Correspondence

1. Please include descriptions in your email that cover the questions listed above as much as possible.
2. Please provide your full name, mailing address, email address, and a daytime phone number where you can be reached.
3. Email hours/days are the same as the phone hours/days listed on this page, so please be patient in receiving your reply.
4. If you are providing digital photos as an attachment, please limit .jpeg or .tiff file size to less than 1 MB.