Many laboratories in and around Ohio provide testing services for pests, plants, water, soil, and fertilizers.  

The use of brand names and/or any mention or listing of specific commercial products or services is solely for educational purposes and does not imply endorsement by The Ohio State University or our partners, nor discrimination against similar brands, products, or services not mentioned.

Local Plant and Pest Identification and Evaluation

Plant and insect/arachnid samples can be evaluated by the Putnam County Extension office at no cost to Putnam County residents. There are several options for residents to have their samples evaluated:

  1. Bring a physical sample of the plant/pest to the Extension office during normal business hours: M-F from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  2. Email an image and/or detailed description of the issue to scheckelhoff.11@osu.edu. 
  3. Text an image and/or detailed description of the issue to 419-307-8218.

Please allow up to two business days for follow-up. While most issues can be identified on-site, a site visit may be required to assess the issue(s) accurately. Some samples may be sent to the OSU C. Wayne Ellett Plant and Pest Diagnostic Lab (PPDC) located in Wooster, OH for additional evaluation. Samples sent to the PPDC may take one or more weeks for results to be determined. 

Plant and Pest Identification/Evaluation by the PPDC

Alternatively, residents can send samples directly to the PPDC for a fee. The PPDC conducts plant health evaluations, insect and arachnid identification, nematode testing, and turfgrass sample evaluations. Instructions for collecting and submitting samples along with submission forms can be found here.

Soil Testing 

A soil test sample kit for lawns, gardens, trees, and agricultural fields can be purchased from the extension office for $10. Once a sample is collected, the kit is mailed to Penn State University's Agricultural Analytical Services Lab. Results are typically received within 7-10 days of receipt. Once received, we can assist in interpreting your test results.  

Many additional labs also offer soil testing services. 

Forage Testing

The Putnam County Extension office has a forage probe that can be used to collect hay samples. A $50 deposit is required to borrow the forage probe. The deposit will be returned when the probe is returned to the office.

Review this video on forage testing: https://youtu.be/R9CZB1F4SoI

Labs and Resources for Forage Testing: