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From Invasive Jumping Worms to Plant Diagnostics, UMass Amherst’s Agricultural Extension Experts Share Advice for Gardeners

Soil tests, fact sheets and much more cover every angle of growing successful plants, fruits and crops

Spring is here — which means spring planning and planting will soon be upon us. From soil tests and plant diagnostics to providing helpful fact sheets on pests and tips, tricks and agriculturally important natural events, the Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (CAFE) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst has a host of services and resources that will help weekend gardeners and professional growers to cultivate healthier, more bountiful crops.

Services available from CAFE, home to the state’s Agricultural Extension, include:

The UMass Extension Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory. UMass Amherst’s Soil Lab is open to the public and currently testing samples to assess how well the soil will support the kinds of crops one is hoping to grow. If your soil sample is unsuited to your agricultural requirements, the lab will suggest custom measures that you can take to amend your soil. The routine analysis costs $20 and will be completed in 6–10 business days. Visit the Soil Lab here.
The UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab. Diagnosis of plant problems is the first step in an effective and economic management program. The UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab serves farmers, greenhouse producers, landscape contractors, turf managers, arborists, nurseries and others in agriculture and the green industries. When a conclusion has been reached on a diagnosis or identification, the lab will send a written report including pest management strategies that are research based, economically sound and environmentally appropriate for the situation. Visit the Plant Diagnostic Lab here.
UMass Amherst’s Extension offers fact sheets on a wide variety of topics: everything from dandelions to why Hydrangea macrophylla don’t flower. Some of their most popular fact sheets include:

For more information about these and all other resources and services offered by CAFE, visit https://ag.umass.edu.