How To Send In Plant Samples For Testing

For test kits that use DNA Collection Cards (not envelopes), should all four slots on the card be leaf samples from the same plant or can it be four different varieties?

Each card can be used to test four individual plants. One plant per quadrant.

How many plant samples can I submit in an envelope?

Only one plant sample per envelope

My plants are over 8 weeks old. Can they still be tested with your system?

Certainly, testing can be performed at any time.

I have only three plants, what will I need to get them tested?

A single card, which will cover up to 4 tests. When we transition to envelopes (coming soon!),1 test will cover 1 plant, so in this case you would purchase a quantity of 3.

Can your test be used with true leaf samples?

Yes.

For DNA Collection Cards submission, do you want us to cut/smash part of the cotyledon or the first actual leaf?

While both are acceptable to use, we recommend using the first true leaf so you don’t damage the plant during early development.

For envelope submission, how big of a leaf do I need to put in?

A small young leaf no larger than the size of your pinkie finger will work

How do I get my samples to you for testing?

Give us a call or check out our services page so we can send you the necessary tools to send your samples to us legally and in good condition.

Am I testing at home - or do I send in samples?

Collect your samples at home, the farm or wherever your plants are. Mail the samples to us for testing as directed in the submission instructions

What part of the specimen would we have to send?

This varies depending on the test. Either the first true leaf (or young leaf) for sex testing, the petiole and partial leaf for pathogen testing (all except fusarium) or root tissue for fusarium.

Can we send in samples at different times if we use our own shipping box?

Yes. To help minimize confusion, just indicate that you are sending back a partial batch from your original order and include your name and email with the subsequent samples. We strongly recommend getting a tracking number for your package.

How much tissue do you need to include in a collection envelope?

If your test came with a sample collection envelope, please provide leaf tissue the size of your thumbprint. Here is a copy of our instructions if that’s helpful! We strongly recommend sending in young leaf tissue; however, if you want to send a cotyledon, we advise you to send both cotyledons and make sure they are not shriveled.

Can I send a cotyledon in a sample envelope?

If your test came with a sample collection envelope, you can send in a cotyledon if it is not shriveled or decayed. However, we recommend waiting until the plantlets have reached its first true leaf state and provide young leaf tissue the size of your thumbprint. We also highly recommend sending both cotyledons.