Submit a Sample
Preparation depends on the type of specimen you are submitting. Be sure to review and follow the instructions for your sample.
Step 1: Prepare Your Sample
It’s important to include all the necessary elements we need to diagnose your sample. Please follow the instructions in the Sample Preparation Instruction PDF. Feel free to download and save it for future reference.
Turf Submission Instructions
- Collect the right sample
Use a shovel or knife to collect a sample plug that is at least 6(height) x 6(width) x 3(depth) inches. The samples should include roots. Send multiple (2 or 3) samples if possible. It is important that the specimen includes both healthy (green – unaffected) and sick (brown -symptomatic) grass. Collect the plug from the boarder of the browning edge (sample should be half green, half brown).
- Provide Information
- Please include information such as: kind of grass and age of planting, symptoms, shape and size of the patches, amount or size of affected area, when the problem began, pattern of damage and its progression over time, soil conditions, weather conditions prior to symptom development, is the area irrigated? problems worse in sun or shade? and pesticides and fertilizer applications.
- Provide Pictures
- Please email digital images of lawn/field showing areas of concern. Send images to csuplantlab@colostate.edu
- Pack it up and keep it fresh
- Wrap the sample tightly in aluminum foil or newspaper. This will keep the soil (root zone) from moving and getting on the leaves. Too much soil on leaves makes the diagnosis more difficult. Do not add water to the sample and do not put the sample in a plastic bag. If samples are too wet the turf will rot. Place your sample in a box and fill it with paper or bubble wrap so that the sample does not move or break apart during shipment. Alternatively, bring sample directly to diagnostic laboratory.
- Send the sample promptly
- Don’t let the sample sit on your porch for a few days before mailing it. If possible, send the sample on the same day you collect it. Do not send samples on Friday. It is recommended that they be mailed on Monday or Tuesday.
Use a shovel or knife to collect a sample plug that is at least 6(height) x 6(width) x 3(depth) inches. The samples should include roots. Send multiple (2 or 3) samples if possible. It is important that the specimen includes both healthy (green – unaffected) and sick (brown -symptomatic) grass. Collect the plug from the boarder of the browning edge (sample should be half green, half brown).Step 2: Download and Complete Your Sample Submission Form
If you need us to identify an agricultural insect, please select the Arthropod form. Otherwise, you just need to fill out the general sample submission form.
Step 3: Deliver Your Sample
Address for Mail and Walk-in Delivery
T-316 Terra Building
CSU Spur Campus
4780 National Western Drive
Denver, CO 80216
If you need help with directions to our new address in Denver, visit the CSU SPUR website.
Step 4: Get Your Results
- We will mail you a full report of our analysis once your sample diagnostics are complete.
- You will receive an invoice in the mail for our services.
- Please remit payment upon receipt.
Thank You
Do You Have Multiple Samples?
If you want to submit multiple samples in one mailing, we need a completed submission form for each sample.
Contact Us
Hours and Location
The Plant Diagnostic Clinic is open Monday-Friday, 9a.m.-5p.m.
Terra Building –
CSU Spur