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Pathogen ID Test Kit - Instructions

Q: What are the Pathogen ID Test submission instructions?

A: Download the Pathogen ID Test submission instructions here


LEAFWORKS KIT INSTRUCTIONS

Kit Supplied Materials:

  • Barcoded coin envelopes

  • Matching barcoded plant stakes

  • Instructions

Additional Items required:

  • Pruning shears or scissors

  • Disposable gloves-Beaker or glass container

  • 10% bleach

  • Paper towels 

Set up a clean space

At this step, it’s important to have a clean working space. Fill the beaker with 10% bleach to sterilize shears. Completely dry shears after sterilization with a fresh paper towel to limit contamination between samples.

Insert plant stakes

Match barcode on the coin envelope to the corresponding stake. The barcode number is the sample name that we will provide to you in the report. Insert plant stakes into each container. Ensure that plant stake and coin envelope always have the same code. Keep stakes with plants until results are returned.

Sample Collection

We recommend sending 3 petiole samples and 3 root samples for each plant you are testing.

       4a. Leaf Sampling

Using sterilized pruning shears, collect one petiole sample from the lower branches of the plant. Be sure to include the petiole (see Figure 1, below). Repeat this 3 times. Place all 3 samples into the provided coin envelope.

Figure 1: Leaf Tissue Sampling Diagram

The yellow circle indicates the area where you should remove tissue from. Take about the size of a nickel or a quarter’s worth of tissue. Repeat this three times from the same plant on different leaves.

Please note: A sickly leaf is encouraged, but do not choose a leaf with too much brown or dead tissue. If the sample is in poor condition, it cannot be tested.

          4b. Root Sampling

    Lightly brush topsoil off the plant to reveal surface root. Using your fingers or sterilized pruning shears, remove a 1-inch root sample near the root crown of the plant (see Figure 2, below).

    Brush off excess growing medium and place into the provided coin envelope along with the tissue samples and seal. Repeat two times. 

    Figure 2: Root Tissue Sampling Diagram

    The yellow circle indicates the area where you should remove root tissue. Sometimes the root crown will span above and below the soil.

    Do not place samples from different plants into the same coin envelope.

     

    Sterilize and repeat

    Sterilize tools and space. Repeat process for all samples.

    Use a fresh pair of gloves for each plant. If you do not sterilize your tools and change gloves between samples, you may get false positives, and/or infect other plants you are taking samples from.

    Close and send us your kit 

    Place your envelopes into the provided return bubble mailer and drop them off at a Post Office.

    Note: We have pre-attached a return label for you in your kit.

    Check your email

    Once we receive the kit we will notify you and analyze your samples’ DNA. You’ll receive an email as soon as your results are ready.

     

    Thanks!