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Tips for collecting a good sample

A good sample or specimen is critical in identification and diagnosis. Following these tips will hopefully result in an accurate identification of the problem and better advice on the management or control of a problem.

Samples for Plant Diagnosis and Weed Identification

• Select plant material which shows the problem.

• If possible, also bring in a healthy sample for comparison.

• For small plants, bring in as much of the plant as possible, including the roots.

• For woody plants with wilting problems, bring in a 6 to 12 inch section with wilting leaves.

• For plant identification, bring in as many parts of the plant as possible. The most useful parts of the plant are the flowers, fruits, leaves, buds and young stems.

• Put samples in a plastic bag to keep them from drying out.

• Keep samples out of direct sunlight.

Samples for Diagnosis of Lawn Problems

• Take the sample from the edge of the affected area.

• Dig up a 3 by 3 inch square section of sod with at least an inch of attached roots and soil.

• Do not let the sample dry out.

Samples for Diagnosis of Fruit and Vegetable Problems

• If possible, bring in samples with both early and intermediate symptoms.

• Do not put samples in a plastic bag.

Samples for Insect and Spider Identification

• Put the sample in a plastic bag.

• Keep the sample out of direct sunlight.

• If you suspect the insect is doing plant damage, bring in a sample from the plant they are feeding on also.