Herbaceous Plants: Perennials & Annuals

Sending the entire plant for diagnosis is always best. Each situation is different, and we understand that sending an entire plant may not always be an option. The following are steps to be taken when sending an herbaceous plant sample.

A completed Plant Diagnostic Form is required for all submissions.

Herbaceous plants make up the largest sector of landscape plants.  These plants are comprised of stems and leaves that die at the end of the growing season.

Entire Plant 

  1. Complete a Plant Diagnostic Form with as much detail as possible including site information, pesticide applications, and the symptoms of concern.
  2. Send the entire plant,including the roots.  Wrap the roots in a plastic bag and secure with string or a twist tie to keep soil off the foliage of the plant.  Do not add water!
  3. Pack the plant securely in a box that is large enough to hold the entire plant.  Placing newspaper or other packing materials around the plant eliminates movement in the box.  Samples may be delivered to the Clinic.  Please call ahead before dropping off a sample.
  4. Seal the completed Plant Diagnostic Form in a separate plastic bag and place the bag in the shipping box.
  5. Seal the box and ship using next day delivery service.

Stems and Leaves

  1. Complete a Plant Diagnostic Form with as much detail as possible including site information, pesticide applications, and the symptoms of concern.
  2. Send a generous amount of leaves and stems which show a range of symptoms, usually from very symptomatic to near normal leaves.
  3. Pack the plant material securely in a box or padded envelope.  Wrap plant material in newspaper or other packing material to prevent crushing during shipping.
  4. Seal the completed Plant Diagnostic Form in a separate plastic bag and place the bag in the shipping box or envelope.
  5. Seal the package and ship using next day delivery service.