This summer I had the opportunity to intern in the Plant Diagnostic Clinic through University of Delaware Cooperative Extension. It has given me the opportunity to provide plant health information to the local community in several different ways. My work involved recording the plant samples that were received through the clinic and using different investigative laboratory techniques to determine the cause of decline. I also worked closely with the USDA to learn more about the fungal pathogen that causes downy mildew on sunflowers, where the goal was to acquire information that could be communicated to growers. Plant health knowledge was also provided to Master Gardeners and landscape professionals through pest walks and workshops. Participants that attended were able to see examples of plant diseases and disorders, both in the laboratory and in the landscape, in hopes that they will implement proper management practices or improve their current practices. The ultimate goal of the Plant Diagnostic Clinic is to understand different plant diseases and share management options with homeowners, landscapers and growers through Extension outreach.
2017 Cooperative Extension Scholar, Jen - 8/29/2017
