Livingston County residents, did you know that our Livingston County Master Gardeners helped hundreds of local gardeners with their gardening questions during the 2016 growing season? Let them help you solve your gardening woes by visiting the University of Illinois Extension Livingston County Master Gardeners walk-in Help Desk or Pontiac Farmer's Market booths this season.

Master Gardeners are trained by University of Illinois specialists and educators to answer questions from the community. Questions answered range from plant and insect identification, weed identification, tree problems, growing vegetables and fruits, and how to create a beautiful landscape. If some questions cannot be answered immediately, they take the time to research the answer for you.

Horticulture Educator, Kelly Allsup says, "we are kind of like plant detectives asking questions, looking at pictures and doing research."

Starting Thursday, April 6, the Livingston County Master Gardeners walk-in Help Desk is open and ready to answer your questions. The Help Desk's hours are Thursdays from 9 a.m. to Noon. The Livingston County Help desk is located at 1412 South Locust St., Pontiac and directly at (815) 842-1776. If you cannot make it to the office hours, please visit us at the Pontiac Farmer's Market this season.

Is there a problem with your yard or garden? Do you have a new landscape? Do you want to know how to replace your Ash tree? Are pests and weeds concerning you? What tomato should you grow? Worry no more—the Livingston County Master Gardeners can help. Bring your questions and any samples you have. Samples should be enclosed in a plastic bag or container and should be fresh to obtain a good diagnosis.

For questions, please contact Kelly Allsup, Extension unit educator, Horticulture-Livingston, McLean and Woodford Unit at (309) 663-8306 or email kallsup@illinois.edu.