Master Gardeners, Master Detectives: Evaluating and Enhancing Volunteer Plant Diagnostic Skills
Extension Education
Heather Kalaman
Extension Agent II
University of Florida
Orlando
Abstract
The UF/IFAS Extension Orange County Plant Clinic plays a crucial role in meeting the gardening needs of our growing community. Serving nearly 2,000 clients annually, dedicated Master Gardener Volunteers (MGVs) process plant samples and offer expertise. Therefore, strengthening their diagnostic skills is crucial to delivering quality support. The objectives of this initiative was to improve MGVs' understanding of plant diagnostic topics in order to better support gardening needs in Orange County. A pre-workshop survey, distributed to 79 MGVs, assessed interest, confidence, and knowledge of plant triage processes, pest identification and management, and other diagnostic topics. Based on survey results, a 3-hour workshop was developed covering plant diagnostic basics, plant pathogen fundamentals, pest identification, and appropriate referral resources. Post-workshop surveys measured improvements in knowledge and confidence.With a 92% response rate (n=73/79), pre-survey results revealed strong interest in plant diagnostics (94%) and pest management (94%), but low confidence in identifying pests (33%) and diseases (28%). Most respondents expressed a need for additional training in pest (86%), disease (94%), and abiotic plant issues (89%). Sixty-four MGVs attended the 3-hour workshop. Post-workshop assessments showed notable improvements: 90% could distinguish pest and disease signs vs. symptoms, 80% identified viral symptoms accurately, and 64% improved their knowledge of diagnostic processes. Participants’ awareness of UF Faculty resources for plant pests and diseases surged, rising between 48% and 63% across categories. This training workshop effectively boosted MGVs' diagnostic skills and preparedness to assist clientele with gardening issues. Enhanced confidence and knowledge highlight the value of ongoing education to strengthen volunteer expertise in plant diagnostics. By equipping MGVs with updated techniques and resources, they are better prepared to tackle complex plant health challenges and offer more informed guidance to the community.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Heather Kalaman, Clarissa Chairez
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Kalaman, H. Extension Agent II, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32812
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Chairez, C. Extension Agent I, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32812