Farm and Residential Diagnostic Services

In order to safely and effectively control insect pests or plant diseases you first need to be able to accurately identify what you have. While many broad spectrum herbicides or pesticides may be labeled for a long list of plant issues, if not applied at the correct stage or in the correct amount you will be throwing money away and creating a negative impact on the environment. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the best approach to balancing protection of your plants in an environmentally friendly way. Many of your questions can be answered at your local CCE office in Belmont. If you are unsure what insect or plant you have, we can assist with Insect/Plant Identification; fee is $10.00 per sample.

We also provide soil pH test for lawns, gardens, pastures or crop fields; fee is $3.00 per sample. If you are looking for a more detailed soil analysis, we will assist you in completing and submitting samples to Dairy One for $25.00 per sample. If you are unsure how to collect a soil sample please click the link in right column for directions. Samples that are not properly collected or handled will impact the accuracy of the test. Once you receive your test results from Dairy One, we can assist you in interpretation and application needs for soil amendments.

Nutrient analysis of hay, forage, and grains can also be submitted to Dairy One through our office. Results for these tests are usually given the next day after Dairy One receives samples via email; if requested a hard copies versions will arrive within a few days after testing. Be sure to contact the office before bringing a forage sample, so that the appropriate staff person can be available to test or submit your samples. We can also assist with water testing for livestock and vegetable producers.

If we are unable to address pest and disease questions locally, samples can be submitted to the Cornell University Lab. Diagnostic fees range from $40-$80 and include shipping cost. Services are available for vegetables, trees, annual and perennial plants, mushrooms, and turf. 

For more complete details on services for farming needs, please contact Lynn Bliven at 585-268-7644 ext. 18 or email lao3@cornell.edu. For home grounds and garden assistant, please contact Cristian Acosta 585-268-7644 ext. 14 or email cfa34@cornell.edu to arrange for timely diagnostic services.

Last updated March 31, 2025