This summer, MSU Extension Gallatin County revived their plant diagnostic clinic with the support of Master Gardener volunteers. The program gives community members the opportunity to get help with yard and garden questions while volunteers can share their knowledge. The Plant Clinic also provides valuable support to the Extension agriculture agent during the busiest time of year.

This was not the first time that Gallatin County has had a plant clinic. When the office was previously in Belgrade, a weekly clinic was held during the growing season from April to September. The Plant Clinic was staffed by a group of Level 3 Master Gardeners and the volunteer coordinator, and ran for a few years then came to an end when the office transitioned to a new agent and location.

In the summer of 2025, the plant clinic returned with weekly drop-in hours from June through August. People could stop by the clinic with plant and insect samples to meet with a volunteer. The clinic was staffed with two trained Master Gardeners who talked with individuals and answered questions. When possible, volunteers would identify plants or diagnose problems on the spot and then provide MSU Extension resources and research-based management strategies. When issues were less straightforward, volunteers asked helpful questions and filled intake forms so the agent could provide a diagnosis or send samples to the Schutter Diagnostic Lab for further evaluation.

The Master Gardeners who volunteered for the clinic attended a two-hour training session early in the spring. The training covered plant identification skills, including how to use a diagnostic key, useful books, and online tools. It also covered identification of common plant problems including abiotic issues such as transplant shock, lack of watering and herbicide damage. Most importantly, the training included how to collect useful information so volunteers can make an informed diagnosis.

Thanks to the group of six dedicated volunteers, Master Gardeners assisted numerous individuals. Volunteers saw a wide range of issues including transplant shock, nutrient deficiencies, blight, and insect damage. They also helped identify several species of weeds and grasses. Those who dropped in to the clinic appreciated having someone to meet with in person. Another perk of the program was volunteer benefits. They all enjoyed having the opportunity to get to know members of the community and each other.

The Plant Clinic will continue next summer at the Gallatin County Extension office. If you are in the county and have questions, don’t forget to drop in.

Elizabeth D’Imperio is the MSU Extension Agriculture and Horticulture Agent in Gallatin County.