Plant & Insect Diagnostic Services

Arapahoe County Extension’s professional horticulture staff and advanced Colorado Master Gardener^SM volunteers provide sample analysis for a small fee to help homeowners, commercial growers, crop consultants, and golf course crews. Our sample analysis can help you to:

• Identify causes of plant, turf, tree and shrub problems
• Diagnose diseases or pest problems
• Find safe and effective control measures
• Receive information on pesticide alternatives or non-chemical controls

How it Works:
Samples may be dropped off Monday through Thursday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Turf samples not accepted October – April. Horticulture staff will complete the analysis, confirm results and ensure that you are contacted with up-to-date research-based information on each sample.

Drop-Off station (in office):

• Fill out data form pre-numbered with sample number (given to client by front desk or Horticulture staff).
• Fill out appropriate worksheet. Copy sample number from data form onto worksheet (given to client by front desk or Horticulture staff).
• Give paperwork (data form, plus worksheet) to front desk (or Horticulture) staff member.
• Sample should be brought in to the office by the client in a trash bag and tied shut.
• Clients will then give the front desk the completed data form for billing.
• Client will pay front desk (or Horticulture) staff via check, credit/debit card (there is a convenience fee for credit/debit card use) or cash (exact change only to minimize handling).
• Front desk (Or Horticulture) staff will take bagged sample and paperwork and put it in the Master Gardener work area.
• Clients will be called for follow-up information.

Click here for guidelines for bringing in a sample.

Cash/Check Fees:

• Insect identification: $9
• Diagnosis: $9
• Plant identification: $9 first plant; $4 each additional.
• Commerical sample: $14 per sample
• Out-of-county surcharge (for any service): $3
  • There is an additional fee for credit card transaction.

No-one shall be denied the opportunity to participate or receive information based on their ability to pay. Fees are subject to change.

The Soil, Water, and Plant Testing Laboratory is also available at the CSU Spur Campus in Denver. This lab analyzes soil, water, plant, sludge, manure and miscellaneous types of samples from farmers, homeowners, consultants, government agencies and CSU personnel, and provides fertilizer suggestions for improving crop growth. The lab does not test herbicides or pesticides.