For strawberry samples submitted to the clinic for diagnosis it is strongly recommended to send an entire plant or plants for the most accurate diagnosis.
A whole plant sample will allow for the most thorough assessment and evaluation.
- Dig a declining, but not completely dead, plant(s) so that the fine feeder roots are included in the sample. Some of the clinging soil can be gently shaken from the roots.
- Place the root system in a bag and tie it off at the base of the plant or wrap the root system in foil or plastic wrap to that the soil does not contaminate the leaves.
- Package the sample in a sturdy box with a completed General Form.
- Ship or deliver the sample early in the week (Monday-Wednesday) to avoid weekend layovers in transit.