MG Gardener Volunteer Hotline

Master Gardener Volunteers are scheduled various days of the week to assist with garden hotline questions, soil pH testing, and plant & insect diagnostics. If you wish to speak to a Master Gardener, please call ahead to make sure there is a Master Gardener on duty before coming to the office. 

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 ($3 per sample, or 2 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. A Master Gardener may not be in the office, but office staff can take your sample and leave it for the next available Master Gardener to test.

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

Insect samples must be placed in a sealed container in alcohol. Do not bring in live insects!

Cost

Soil pH: $3 per sample or $5 for two samples

Insect & Plant ID: $5 per sample

Last updated April 9, 2026