MG Gardener Volunteer Hotline

Master Gardener Volunteers are scheduled various days of the week to assist with garden hotline questions, soil pH tesing, and plant & insect diagnostics.  Some volunteers will be working remotely during hotline hours, but will answer your call if you leave a message on their voicemail.

Call (716) 652-5400 ext 202 or email mgerie@cornell.edu.

The CCE Erie County Master Gardener Program volunteers:

• Reply to horticultural inquiries received via phone or e-mail.
• Test Soil pH ($2 per sample, or 3 samples for $5).
• Provide Plant and Insect Identification. ($5 fee per specimen)
• Provide Plant Diagnostics. ($5 fee per sample)
• Provide speakers for garden clubs and other organizations (currently virtual).
• Support school and community garden/horticulture projects.
• Conduct horticulture outreach at fairs, garden shows, and other public events.
• Increase awareness of integrated pest management (IPM), water quality, conservation, and other environmental issues.

Follow the Cornell Garden Based Learning link in the left menu for flower and vegetable growing guides and information on designing flower gardens.

How and When Can I Drop off my Soil, Plant or Insect Sample?

Drop off your samples at our office between 8:30 am - 4:30 pm M-F.

Instructions on how to obtain your soil sample can be found here.

Instructions on how to obtain your insect ID sample can be found here.

Cost

Soil pH: $2 per sample or $5 for three samples

Insect & Plant ID: $5 per sample

Last updated April 17, 2024