New Mexico State University Plant Diagnostic Clinic
Overview
The NMSU Plant Diagnostic Clinic provides essential services to growers, homeowners, and industry professionals by identifying plant diseases, insect pests, and abiotic disorders. To ensure an accurate diagnosis, it is critical that samples are collected and submitted according to the following guidelines.
General Collection Guidelines
A diagnosis is only as good as the sample provided. Please follow these best practices when preparing your material:
- Select the right tissue: Collect samples that show the transition from healthy to diseased tissue. Do not send samples that are completely dead or decayed, as secondary organisms will have overgrown the primary pathogen, making identification impossible.
- Provide sufficient material: When possible, submit the entire plant, including the root system. If the plant is large, provide several branches or leaves that show a range of symptoms.
- Keep it fresh: Samples should be collected as close to the shipping or drop-off time as possible. Do not add water to the sample, as this promotes rot.
Packaging and Shipping
Crucial Step: Place plant samples in a paper bag or wrap them in newspaper. Never use plastic bags for plant tissue, as they trap moisture and cause the sample to decompose rapidly in transit.
When preparing your package:
- Seal the sample securely in a sturdy cardboard box to prevent crushing.
- Include the completed submission form in a separate sealed plastic bag to protect it from moisture.
- Ship early in the week (Monday or Tuesday) to ensure the package arrives before the weekend. Samples sitting in a shipping warehouse over the weekend will likely arrive in unusable condition.
Information Requirements
The Clinic requires detailed background information to conduct an effective investigation. When filling out the submission form, please include:
- Host plant name (common and scientific, if known).
- Planting date or age of the plant.
- Symptoms observed and how quickly they spread.
- A history of recent chemical applications, including fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides.
- Environmental factors, such as irrigation habits, soil type, and recent weather patterns.
Digital Submissions
If you prefer to start with a digital inquiry, you may email high-resolution photographs to the Clinic. Ensure images are in focus and include both a close-up of the affected area and a wider view of the plant in its environment. While digital images are helpful for quick assessments, please note that a physical sample is often required for confirmed lab diagnosis.
Contacting the Clinic
Please contact the NMSU Plant Diagnostic Clinic directly before sending complex samples or if you have specific questions regarding fee structures or current turnaround times. We are committed to providing the diagnostic support necessary to maintain the health of New Mexicos agricultural and horticultural landscapes.
