Macomb County MSU Extension announces the opening of its plant and pest diagnostics lab

Solving the mystery of struggling plants and identifying unknown insects are among the common questions that the consumer horticulture program receives in Macomb County. MSU Extension offers a variety of options to help gardeners find answers such as submitting questions to the online ‘Ask an Expert’ portal or calling the toll-free lawn and garden hotline at 888-674-3464 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. – Noon. Examples of questions answered include determining the cause of struggling conifers, vegetables or fruits, or identifying an insect or tick found in the garden.

The office also offers in-person diagnostic services for those wishing to bring in a plant or insect sample at its Diagnostic Lab located at 21885 Dunham Road, Suite 12. David Lowenstein, a consumer horticulture educator with a master’s degree in Entomology, and trained Extension Master Gardener volunteers help provide answers to gardening questions. The office accepts plant and insect samples on most Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. from mid-May to mid-September. Individuals wondering if a plant issue is one the office can assist with should call first. Additionally, with prior notification, clients unable to drop off a sample during walk-in office hours can leave a sample in a drop box outside Entrance E on Mondays or by appointment at a different time. Most insect and plant samples will get a same day answer for the modest price of $7.

For more information call 586-469-6440 or to learn more about MSU Extension, visit https://www.canr.msu.edu/outreach/

Supporting images are available here, including:

Photos 1/2: A blight on a pine tree that was brought to the lab

Photo 3: Scale insect on an orchid

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.