University of Missouri Plant Diagnostic Clinic : guidelines for collecting and submitting samples (2017)

Abstract

Diagnosis of plant damage requires examination and testing to detect disease-causing pathogens on plant material. The clinic also checks for insect pests and assesses damage that may have been caused by nonliving agents. Weeds and insects are identified based on physical characteristics. When plant problems are caused by cultural or environmental conditions,determining the exact cause may not be possible. However, when enough information is included, the clinic can suggest possible causes for the damage identified in the diagnosis.