Plant Diagnostics: The Step-by-Step Approach to Identifying Plant Problems is an online course offered by the UW-Madison Extension Horticulture Program. The course, which runs Feb. 1-April 30, 2026, teaches basic troubleshooting skills for plant-related problems.

Learn the step-by-step process for identifying plant problems in your yard, garden, and even indoors. This course introduces the plant diagnostic process in an easy-to-understand way. Anyone who is interested in becoming a better gardener, regardless of skill level, is invited to register. This course is open to all Wisconsin gardeners of all skill levels, as well as commercial horticulture practitioners. 

At the end of the course, participants will be able to:
● Explain the steps of the diagnostic process
● Identify appropriate resources to use for diagnostics
● Know how to access UW-Madison Extension diagnostic labs and services for additional support

Plant Diagnostics: The Step-by-Step Approach to Identifying Plant Problems is completely self- paced with 13 modules that contain videos, readings, and interactive activities. Participants are also invited to attend two live webinars, “Putting the Process into Practice: Real World Diagnostics”, led by UW-Madison Extension educators, and “Meet the Labs!”, with UW- Madison diagnostic lab directors.

Registration for the general public and commercial professionals is open until Jan. 29, 2026. An Early Bird registration discount is available now through Jan. 19 at a rate of $99. The regular registration rate ($119) is in place Jan. 22-29. Wisconsin Extension Master Gardeners are eligible for a special discounted rate of $49.

Find more information about this course and register at: go.wisc.edu/ExtDiagnosticsCourse
Questions? Contact the course moderator, Amy Freidig at
gardening.class@extension.wisc.edu.