Insects can be submitted in a vial or small jar of rubbing alcohol or finger nail polish remover. Please do not use water and always try to collect and submit several samples of the pest. Samples of plant material should be large enough to show the damage and always try to select a sample that shows the transition of the problem - not just a dead branch or leaf. Fall is a good time to take a soil sample for pH testing. Simple instructions for taking a soil sample are available.
Directions are available to the Extension office.
We have a drop box adjacent to the front door where samples can be left anytime of night or day. Be sure to include your name, address, and phone number. Larger samples can be left on the front screened-in porch, but you might want to call the office to let us know it is there. Be sure to include your complete name and mailing address, in case we have material to send you. Some Master Gardeners write articles for our monthly Columbia Consumer Horticultural Almanac.