MADISON, Wis. — “Plant Diagnostics: The Step-by-Step Approach to Identifying Plant Problems” is an online course offered by the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension Horticulture Program.

The course is designed to teach participants troubleshooting skills for plant-related problems. This online course runs from Feb. 1 to April 30. 

Attendees can learn the step-by-step process for identifying plant problems in their gardens. This course explains the basics of the plant diagnostic process in an easy-to-understand way. 

At the end of the course, participants will be able to:

— Explain the steps of the diagnostic process;

— Identify appropriate resources to use in the diagnostic process;

— Learn how to use UW-Madison Division of Extension diagnostic services and labs for extra help when needed.

The online course is self-paced, with 13 modules that include videos, reading, and interactive activities. Two live webinars — “Putting the Process into Practice: Real World Diagnostics,” led by Extension Educators; and “Meet the Labs,” presented by diagnostic lab directors — are included in the course. Anyone interested in becoming a better gardener and detecting problems as they arise is invited to participate. 

Regular registration is at $109 through Jan. 31. Special discounted pricing of $49 is available for active participants in the Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program. Find more information about this course at: https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/plant-diagnostics-course/ 

Master Gardeners who complete the course by Dec. 31 can get 7.5 hours of continuing education.

ISA Certified Arborists who complete the course by April 30 will earn 7.5 CEUs.

For more information, contact course moderator Amy Freidig at gardening.class@extension.wisc.edu.