Question of the Week
browse by: questions
How can I figure out what disease and insect problems I have?
One of the best ways is to take a sample to your local Extension Office or send them a digital picture. Be sure to enclose the diseased plant or insect securely in a plastic bag or jar. Be sure to take a good sample. In the case of turf grass, make sure you get some living grass that has the infected parts included. We can diagnose but we can't necessarily do autopsies!
Also, it helps if you can bring it in at different stages of the problem, if possible. Provide as much information as you can about the situation, when it started, and how quickly it progressed.
In Travis County, send your digital pictures and description of the problem to our Master Gardeners or come by the office.
Or find out more online about plant problems and diseases.
Also, check out the City of Austin's Grow Green Plant Diagnostics, which has pictures, descriptions, and remedies for many common garden problems.
Or, on July 11, 2009, bring your samples to the Master Gardeners free workshop: Becoming a Garden Detective: Diagnosing Plant Problems, at Zilker Botanical Garden from 10 a.m. to noon.
Related Episodes
