What is the cost to have a sample tested?

• The Plant Diagnostic Clinic charges $40.00 per sample and $80.00 for Molecular Identification by PCR.

What types of plants are tested?

• Any agricultural crop in the South Florida region can be submitted for testing. The most common plants tested are tomatoes, watermelons, bell peppers, squash, and citrus.

What type of disorders can be tested?

• The clinic will run diagnostic tests to determine if there is a plant disease. If no pathogens are detected, then the symptoms may be caused by other problems such as phytotoxicity or nutritional disorder.
• The clinic does not test soil samples.

What type of sample should be sent?

• Leaves, fruit, roots, or the entire plant will be accepted for testing.
• Sample should be of sufficient quantity and quality for testing.
• Details can be found on Diagnostic Clinic submission forms.

How long does it take to receive the results?

• The length of time to make a diagnosis will vary depending on the testing required for each sample submission.

What weed science services are available?

• Identification of weeds
• Identification of invasive plants
• Diagnosis of herbicide phytotoxicity
• Herbicide residue management. 

What types of plants are tested?

• Any agricultural crop in the South Florida region, as well as any weed or plant affecting them, can be submitted for testing.

Weed identification can be made by one of the following options:

• Submit a fresh plant sample to the clinic, via mail or dropped off in-person.
• Email a high-quality photo along with a completed Weed Identification form to rkanissery@ufl.edu.

What type of sample should be sent?

• Submit adequate plant material representing a range of symptoms. This may include leaves, fruit, roots, or the entire plant.
• Whole plant(s), including roots, are preferred for weed identification.
• Sample should be of sufficient quantity and quality for testing.
• If submitting photos, ensure they are of high resolution, clear, and with good lighting to show symptoms and growing location. Where possible, include a photograph of the whole plant with roots. A contrasting background is recommended for visualizing plant characteristics.
• More details can be found on the Plant Diagnostic Clinic—Weed Identification form.

For more information about weed identification services, contact Dr. Ramdas Kanissery at rkanissery@ufl.edu or 239-658-3455

Clinic Invoices can be paid online. Please look for the link in the emailed Sample Report or Contact us for more information.