Key Things to Know About Taking Specimens

 to

MG Clinics or the WSU Office in Coupeville

Collecting and Packaging Plant Disease Samples

Please submit as much of the plant as possible, including roots. Samples should show the margin between affected and healthy tissues. Include healthy tissues as well as diseased tissues so a comparison with the "normal" plant is possible. Do not send specimens that are completely dead, dried, or rotted. Include COMPLETE information on the appropriate forms obtained at the clinic or the WSU extension main office. These forms can be sent directly to your home by calling and asking our staff to mail them to you. Be sure the forms are well filled out by the person who is most familiar with the history of the site and the problem. VEGETABLES, BULBS, ANNUALS: Send entire affected plant(s) including roots.
SHRUBS, TREES: Send samples of both healthy and affected tissues. Include at least one specimen showing the margin between healthy and disease tissues.
TURF GRASS: Send 4 inch squares including roots and soil. Take samples at the edge of the affected areas and include both healthy and affected grass. For best results, send samples representing healthy, slightly affected, and severely affected areas of lawn. Samples should be packed in plastic bags with NO ADDED MOISTURE. Warp roots in a separate bag to keep dirt off foliage. Keep plant materials in the refrigerator until they can be sent to the clinic or main office. Pack samples securely in a box to prevent damage when mailing. Send or bring samples early in the week so they arrive in a FRESH CONDITION.
 
 

Insect Identification


Butterflies, moths, and bees should be killed by FREEZING, not in alcohol (alcohol will damage many key features used in identification of these insects). To mail these insects, pack gently with tissues or cotton in a vial. enclose the vial with the complete "Insect Diagnosis Request" form in a box and mail. Obtain the form at the office and fill out before leaving insect with staff or call to have one mailed so it can be filled out in advance. Most people take the two minutes at the office when bringing in specimens to fill them out.
All other insects (spiders, ticks, mites) can be preserved in 70% ethyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol is okay), preferably in a clear vial sealed with tape to help prevent leaking.

Do not send live insects or badly damaged specimens.
 
 
 

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