Sampling
- Choose specimens showing various stages of disease symptoms (light to severe symptoms). Include some healthy specimens for comparison.
- If possible whole plants including roots should be submitted (many symptoms seen in above-ground plant parts may result from root infection).
- If there is any possibility of pesticide injury being implicated, please provide information on pesticide use in the present crop season and for the previous four years if available.
- It is important to note the fertilizer use pattern including timing of application, rate of application, and the form of the fertilizer used. The previous year's fertilizer applications should also be noted.
- Ensure all sections of the Plant Disease Diagnosis Request Form are complete and submitted along with the sample.
Packaging and handling
- Wrap specimens in dry paper towel.
- If the sample includes the root system with soil attached, put this portion into a plastic bag and tie it off at the base of the stem. Leave the above ground parts loosely packed in dry paper towel.
- Submit the sample in a rigid container, loosely packed in dry packing material such as newspaper.
Note: If a viral infection is suspected, please submit living plants when possible, e.g. dig up infected plants and place in a container and transport to the lab immediately. If this is not possible wrap the detached plant material that is showing symptoms in slightly moistened paper towel and submit to the lab as quickly as possible.