Plant Disease Diagnostics Online Course
Gaining expertise in plant health just got easier—and more rewarding for your professional credentials.
The University of Maine Cooperative Extension is proud to launch our latest online resource: Plant Disease Diagnostics. This self-paced course is designed to move you beyond guesswork, providing a scientific, 5-step workflow to identify and manage plant pathogens in the Northeast.
Whether you are managing a commercial greenhouse, a professional landscape, or a productive home garden, this learning experience offers high-level training and tangible professional benefits. Developed by UMaine Extension specialist Dr. Alicyn Smart, the learning experience focuses on practical, evidence-based skills. In approximately six hours of interactive learning, you will learn:
- The 5-Step diagnostic process: From host identification to action planning.
- Biotic vs. Abiotic Stress: Distinguish between living pathogens (fungi, bacteria, viruses) and environmental factors (nutrient deficiencies, frost, or herbicide drift).
- Symptom Recognition: Learn to accurately name and analyze signs like chlorosis, cankers, and wilting.
- Sample Submission: Best practices for packaging and sending samples to our nationally accredited lab.
Earn Credits and Credentials
This is more than just a learning opportunity—it is a significant boost to your professional profile:
- Six Pesticide Recertification Credits: Successful completion is approved for six (6) credits from the Maine Board of Pesticide Control, making this an efficient way for Maine private pesticide applicators to fulfill the 6 recertification credits required every three years to renew their license.
- UMaine Digital Badge: Participants will earn the Plant Disease Diagnostics micro-badge. This verifiable digital credential can be showcased on LinkedIn, resumes, and business websites to demonstrate your specialized expertise to clients and employers.
Enroll here: https://discover.maine.edu/product?catalog=Plant_Disease_Diagnostics