It is almost time for the Plant Clinic to close its doors for the season. Wednesday, September 15, is the last day of operation for this year. We will open once again on May 2, 2005. Any samples that arrive by September 15 will be processed as usual. This is a firm deadline. There is no one to process samples after that date.

If you have a plant problem after the closing date, contact your local Extension office. Extension offices also have access to a digital distance-diagnosis system. If further help is needed from a specialist, Extension personnel can help direct you. The following University of Illinois specialists may be available for telephone questions, but do not send samples to these specialists unless requested to do so by the specialist. There is no lab service after September 15.

Insect problems: Phil Nixon, 333-6650; Raymond Cloyd, 244-7218; Kelly Cook, 333-4424

Disease problems: Nancy Pataky, 333-2478; Bruce Paulsrud, 244-9646

Tree/shrub problems: David Williams, 333-2126

Turf problems: Tom Voigt, 333-7847

Herbaceous plant problems: Jim Schmidt, 244-5153

The Plant Clinic staff would welcome your comments concerning our lab. This might include suggestions for future services, problems that need to be fixed, questions, or any other helpful comments. Some assays cannot be done because of staff limitations or funding, but we would like to hear from you so we can try to meet some of your needs. Comments can be directed to Nancy Pataky, N533 Turner Hall, 1102 S. Goodwin, Urbana, IL 61802, or npataky@ uiuc.edu. Please make a note on any such communications that contents are suggestions for the Plant Clinic.