Ask a Master Gardener

Our goal as Master Gardeners is to offer science-based help and education to gardeners. If you have a question on growing plants in the Pacific Northwest we would be happy to answer it.

Garden Advice Line

In partnership with Milner Gardens & Woodland, we offer a free email-based gardening advice service to our community.

Before you submit your question

Here are some other resources you can check to see if your question has already been answered:

  • InfoSheets: Click here to view a compilation of more in-depth information on questions that have been asked by the public at our Advice Clinics as well as information shared by members with expertise and passion for particular topics.
  • Questions … answered! Click here for a list of previous questions and answers from the Garden Advice Line.
  • VIRL/VIMGA Gardening Series: Click here for live presentations and videos.
  • Plant Picks: Click here for details on plants found at Milner Gardens and Woodland.
If you do not find the answer to your question in the above materials then click here for information about how and where to send your question.

Because the more information we have about your plant and the problem, the more likely we will be able to formulate an accurate, science-based answer. Please include in your email any of the information below that you think is relevant to your question. For instance: 

  • Your location
  • Plant name
  • Sun exposure 
  • Watering and fertilizing regimen 
  • Is the soil mulched?
  • How long has the problem been happening?
  • Other info that would be helpful if you know it
    • Any extreme weather events in the past year
    • Any unusual wind conditions
    • Type of soil

Please also include pictures of the plant, including:

  • The whole plant
  • Close-ups showing the problem
  • A close-up of where the trunk or stem enters the soil

If you have a plant identification question:

You can try these suggested resources before you submit a photo for identification

  • Click here to view our InfoSheet titled Can I use my phone to identify this plant?
  • iNaturalist is a free plant identification app.
  • Plant Picks are articles that provide details of some of the plants found at Milner Gardens & Woodland. The articles are written by VIMGA members and are available on the Milner website: https://milnergardens.via.ca/plant-picks

If you wish to submit a photo for identification:\

  • Provide a clear, close up photo showing the details of flower, stem, leaves etc.
  • Provide approximate size of the plant
  • Describe the growing conditions

Submit your question via email to:
GardeningAdvice.MilnerGardens@shaw.ca

Advice Clinics

Master Gardeners partner annually with many active gardening-focused groups including ‘seedy’ events, garden centres, libraries, plant clubs/associations, farmers’ markets, and garden tours. At these public locations, MG volunteers set up a table of resources and do our best to answer gardening questions. Click here to view the calendar of advice clinics in your area.

Garden Advice Parties (GAP)

A GAP is intended to serve private individuals or community gardeners who are interested in hosting Master Gardeners at their own gardens where they can benefit from on-site advice. Email gaps@vimga.org to request a GAP.


Note: Advice is given without charge and although it is believed to be correct, it is given on the basis that there is no liability on the part of the Master Gardener, VIU or the Vancouver Island Master Gardeners Association.

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