Importance of Proper Diagnosis
Proper diagnosis is essential for managing insect pest or plant disease problems. Plant pests and pathogens have complex life cycles and when plants become stressed, secondary agents often take advantage of their weakened condition. Because of these factors, an experienced diagnostician and a quality sample is needed to accurately identify the cause of a plant problem.
The Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic analyzes plants for problems caused by pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, phytoplasmas and nematodes and addresses problems caused by abiotic issues such as over watering, chemical damage and weather events. The clinic also provides plant and mushroom identification services.
We strive to identify the cause of the problems as quickly as possible. Responses from our diagnosticians will include an explanation of the findings, a description of the pathogen or pest and, if available, management suggestions.
The condition of your sample greatly affects the diagnostician’s ability to provide a timely and accurate response. Follow the guidelines in our Collection and Submission Tips and ask questions if something is unclear. Provide the best quality sample you can obtain, pack it with care, ship it quickly and provide contact information for best results.
Other problem-solving resources you should be familiar with:
- Cornell’s Insect Diagnostic Laboratory – Identifies insects and insect damage from samples collected on plants, animals, in stored foods and even buildings.
- Cornell Soil Health Laboratory – Provides standardized information on important soil biological and physical constraints in addition to standard nutrient analyses.
- Local offices of Cornell Cooperative Extension – Get local help from Extension educators familiar with the common problems your community faces.
Identification and early detection are critical!
But not all microorganisms and insects are pests.
Microorganisms and insects are found nearly everywhere in the world? The majority that you will find in and around your home and garden are harmless and even beneficial.
Insects serve as pollinators for ⅓ of our food supply, produce beeswax and food such as honey, improve soil condition through their movements, are parasites or predators of harmful insects, and are studied by students to gain a better understanding of everything from genetics to conservation.
Microorganisms produce oxygen, break down dead organic matter, ferment beer and wine, clean up oil spills, produce pharmaceuticals such as Penicillin and live in our intestines as microflora. A small group of insects and microorganisms are harmful pests and pathogens that cause damage to plants or our homes. It takes a well-trained diagnostician to distinguish the good from the bad.
Be sure to use a qualified diagnostician who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and offer the best option for managing your situation. Remember…identification and early detection are critical!