Collecting and packaging samples

Collecting samples

Select live material:

Root diseases: collect samples of soil and diseased roots from several places around and beneath plants. Bulk samples together. Where possible, part or whole root system should be included.
Foliar diseases: collect a range of mildly to severely infected and healthy leaves, place in newspaper or paper bags, then wrap in plastic.
Insect and mite pests: collect several pests and some of the damaged plant material.
Wilt diseases: dig up plants and submit all of the plant material if practical.
Fungal decay and rot: forward rotted material and fruiting bodies of any fungi.
Potted plants: collect healthy and diseased specimens.

Soil samples should be placed in plastic bags (e.g. zip-lock bags) and then secured in sturdy containers (not glass).
Shoots, leaves and flowers should be placed in paper in a plastic bag.
Insects and host material should be placed in a sturdy container (not glass).
Label each specimen clearly with your name using a permanent marker.
Please include your name, address, phone/fax number and email address (if available).
Also include any information you can provide about the specimens.

Plant Disease Diagnostic Unit
Botanic Gardens Trust
Mrs Macquaries Rd
Sydney NSW 2000

Telephone: (02) 9231 8186
Facsimile: (02) 9241 1135
Email: pddu@rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au