Plant Diagnostics Laboratory

Clients who would like to hand-deliver samples may come to Room 3 of French Hall or leave samples in the bin marked "Diagnostic Lab Samples" outside the back door.

Diagnosis of plant problems is the first step in an effective and economic management program. The UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab serves farmers, greenhouse producers, landscape contractors, turf managers, arborists, nurseries, and others in agriculture and the green industries. When a conclusion has been reached on a diagnosis or identification, the lab will send a written report including pest management strategies that are research based, economically sound, and environmentally appropriate for the situation.

E-mail responses will come from pdisnoreply@ksu.edu. Please ensure that e-mail from this address is not marked by your server as spam. All results are confidential.

Please note: The lab is not able to test for pesticide residues, VOC’s, or other contaminants.

The lab does not identify insects found in the home, on animals, or on people. For information on this topic, see the following links:

The lab does not identify mold or fungi found in the home. For information on this topic, see the following links

 

We now offer two forms of payment – scroll down to Step 3 for payment options.

 

To Submit a Sample:

Step 1 — Read Guidelines for Preparing Your Sample

Choose the type of test from the list in Step 2, and read the instructions on taking and preparing samples. Accurate diagnosis requires both a representative sample and sufficient information about the cultural practices and environmental conditions associated with the problem.

For proper diagnosis, specimens must be received in good condition.

Step 2 — Complete a Submission Form

A completed Sample Submission Form is required for each specimen. Please fill out the submission form as thoroughly as possible- the information you provide will be helpful in reaching a diagnosis. Submission forms for each test can be accessed at the links below.

Step 3 — Payment Options

There is a fee per specimen (or particular problem). The appropriate fee or proof of payment must accompany each sample.

By check: Enclose your payment with the sample. Make checks payable to the University of Massachusetts

By credit card: Enclose a copy of your credit card sales confirmation with the sample.

Click here to pay by credit card

For proper diagnosis, specimens must be received in good condition. Hand-deliver samples if possible, or send them by the fastest means available. Include accompanying information (such as photos, etc.) regarding the symptoms that are of particular concern to you. Federal Express, UPS, and Priority Mail through the U.S. Postal Service deliver directly to the building.

Walk-ins, please note: Credit card payments are available online only. If you wish to pay by credit card, your online receipt must accompany your sample.  Payment at the lab is by cash or check only.

Address packages to:

UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab
#3 French Hall, 230 Stockbridge Road, Amherst, MA 01003
(413) 545-3208 - fax (413) 545-3075

Use exact address to ensure delivery.

Contact

Dr. Nicholas Brazee 413-545-2826; nbrazee@umass.edu

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