Instructions for Collecting, Preparing, and Mailing Samples.

1. Please fill out the front side of this form as completely as possible.  If a plant is worth inquiring about, it is worth the owner’s/advisor’s time to provide pertinent information to assist in the diagnosis.

2. Collect the plant material that is showing the symptoms. If possible, send several samples which show the progression of symptoms from mild to severe.

3. For small trees (seedlings) send the entire plant, including the root system if possible.  Wrap in dry paper towels and place in an unsealed plastic bag.  Wrap mushrooms or fruit in newspaper and place in a box.

4. For larger trees, send a 6” to 8” branch cutting, including leaves, flowers, and/or fruit where appropriate.  These samples may be placed in a plastic bag which is forded over loosely, but NOT sealed tightly.  DO NOT add moist paper towels as samples will begin to mold and decompose in transit.

5. Place dry insects in small, sturdy containers such as pill jars or film containers.  Soft bodied insects should be placed in a small container of rubbing alcohol.  Pack in a mailing tube or box with paper or stuffing to prevent damage in the mail.  Do not mail insects in an envelope.

6. Mail specimens as soon after collecting as possible.  If hold-over periods are unavoidable, keep the specimen refrigerated. Allow at least two days in transit.  Therefore, mail packages so they arrive on a weekday.

7. Mail samples to:

Yvonne Barkley
Extension Forestry
University of Idaho
PO Box 441140
Moscow, ID 83844-1140

8. Concerning our diagnosis: Findings reported by this office are based on examination of information and plant material submitted. Not all tree problems are caused by plant pathogens or insect attacks.  Other causes (unusual weather patterns, nutrient deficiencies, pesticides) are often difficult to diagnose without an on-site investigation.  Some diagnoses require intensive microscopic or biochemical analysis which we do not have the facilities to accomplish.