Sample Submission Guidelines
Submitting a high-quality, properly collected sample is critical for an accurate diagnosis. Samples that are too small, dried out, decayed or improperly packaged may delay results or be unsuitable for testing.
General Guidelines | Insect Identification | Turfgrass | Tree Samples
General Guidelines (All Samples)
- Submit fresh, representative material showing early to moderate symptoms whenever possible
- Include both healthy tissue and symptomatic tissue
- Avoid sending dead, dry or heavily decayed samples
- Place samples in a clean resealable bag (see category-specific instructions)
- If submitting a plant with roots, securely wrap the root ball and soil in plastic wrap to avoid debris on the leaves
- Do not add water to the sample or cut holes in the resealable bag
- Complete and include one submission form for each sample; include detailed site information
- Provide photos: email clear digital images of the affected areas to: csuplantlab@colostate.edu
- Ship or deliver samples promptly (early in the week is recommended, avoid shipping on Thursday or Friday)
Insect Identification
Insect Identification Sampling Instructions
- We do not accept samples from the human body (e.g. fluids, hair or tape samples from skin)
- Packaging:
- Use a rigid container to prevent crushing
- Place larvae or soft-bodied insects in a vial containing alcohol (70% is ideal)
- Secure containers to prevent movement during transport
Turfgrass
Turfgrass Sampling Instructions
- Use a shovel or spade to collect a turf plug measuring about 6x6x3 inches
- Samples must include roots
- Submit 2-3 plugs if possible
- Collect from the edge of the affected area so the sample is half healthy (green) and half symptomatic (brown)
- Securely wrap the sample in aluminum foil or newspaper to minimize loose soil
Tree Sampling
General Tree Sampling Guidelines
- Submit 2-3 branches
- Branches should be:
- At least ½ inch in diameter
- 6-8 inches long
- Collect branches (not twigs)
- Branches must include both healthy (living) tissue and symptomatic tissue (e.g. live needles and damaged needles)
- Place samples in a resealable plastic bag
- Drop-off or ship your sample soon after collecting
Verticillium Wilt
- Select branches where symptoms are actively developing
- Look for vascular discoloration (often radiating from the center outward)
- When discoloration is observed, collect additional branches from that limb
- Do not send dead or dry branches
- Place in a resealable plastic bag
- Drop-off or ship your sample soon after collecting
Pine Wilt Nematode
- Collect a 1–2-inch cross-section (“cookie”) from:
- Breast height (4.5 ft above ground) on the main trunk, or
- Symptomatic lower branches if trunk sampling is not possible
- Alternatively, wood shavings from the main trunk at breast height may be submitted
- Bark should be removed before drilling
- Place shavings in a resealable plastic bag
Contact Us
Hours and Location
Monday – Thursday: 9:00am-4:00pm
Friday: By appointment only
Terra Building –
CSU Spur