Master Gardener Helpline
By Jutta Thoerner UCCE Master Gardener Volunteer
I used to call the UC Master Gardner Program in Orange County for advice with my plant and insect ID questions. Is this service available in this area? Christian, SLO.
Yes, these services are available through the UC Master Gardener helpline. We have three helpline locations in the county - San Luis Obispo, Templeton and Arroyo Grande.
There are four ways of accessing the Helpline.
1. Visit the MG helpline office
2. Call the helpline office number and talk to a MG or leave a voicemail
3. Drop off a sample and fill out a questionnaire when MGs are not in
4. Email MGs and include information and photos of your plant or insect issue, using anrmgslo@ucanr.edu,
Tips on how to collect samples:
FOR PLANT PROBLEMS: Its ideal for the sample to be collected just before it is brought into the Helpline Office. If that's not possible, store the sample in the refrigerator until you can bring it in (don't add any water to the sample bag). Select a sample showing distinct disease or insect symptoms. Include plant parts to show various stages of the problem with diseased and healthy plant tissue for comparison.
FOR PLANT IDENTIFICATION: Collect as many parts of the plant including flowers and leaves attached to the stems, and any fruit or berries. Flowers are especially crucial in plant and weed identification. If submitting a root sample, place it in a paper bag separate from any other plant samples. Dig roots carefully; don't pull as diseased roots are fragile.
FOR PEST IDENTIFICATION: Handle the insects gently as not to damage them. Include any leaves with evidence of damage caused by the insect.
No problem is too small for the MG helpline!
Helpline Locations:
San Luis Obispo: 2156 Sierra Way, 805-781-5939. Helpline is staffed on Monday and Thursday 1-5pm. Drop off samples anytime M-F, 8 am-5 pm.
Templeton: 350 N. Main St B, 805-434-4105. Helpline is staffed on Wednesday 9am -12 pm. Drop off samples anytime M-F, noon-2:30pm.
Arroyo Grande: 810 West Branch St, 805-473-7190. Helpline is staffed on Wednesdays, 9am -12pm. Drop off samples anytime M-F, 8 am-2:30pm.