Oklahoma State University


Submitting Samples to PDIDL


Collecting plant samples:

  • Collect several plant specimens showing various stages of disease development. Select plants that are still alive.

  • Collect the entire plant whenever possible. Plants should be dug (not pulled) to keep the roots intact.

  • For tree samples, the branches sent in should be at least 8 inches long.



    Plant sample packaging:

    First, wrap the roots of the plant in a plastic bag so that they do not dry out. If the plant is already potted then it can be left in the pot for shipping.



    Second, wrap the entire sample in plant bags to keep it from drying out (exceptions: wrap fleshy fruits beginning to decay and mushrooms in newspaper).



    Third, place the plant in a sturdy box or mailing tube. Do not add water or wet paper towels. Send a detailed history explaining the disease symptoms, when disease began, name, address, and phone number. Take it to your county Cooperative Extension Office to have it shipped or send it directly to the lab address below by first class mail.



    Collecting soil samples:

  • Take several soil samples in an area showing possible nematode damage. Collect the soil at a depth where the root concentration is the greatest (1-12 inches). Mix the samples from the area.

  • Remove a single 1 pint sample for nematode analysis.

    Soil sample packaging:

    Place soil in a non-vented plastic bag. Label the bag with collection date, location, and crop. Mail first class in a sturdy box or take it to your county Cooperative Extension Office to have it shipped.

    Sample submission:

    Before submitting a sample please complete a Plant Disease or Insect Diagnostic Request Form and submit it with the sample to the following address:

    Plant Disease and Insect Diagnostic Laboratory
    Entomology and Plant Pathology
    Oklahoma State University
    127 NRC
    Stillwater OK 74078-3033


    		•
    Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources