Sampling for Fruit and Nut Trees

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Sampling of fruit and nut trees for testing of viruses and phytoplasmas

  • Since viruses and phytoplasmas can be unevenly distributed throughout of the tree, several subsamples per tree are recommended. If sampling from mature trees, divide tree canopy in four sectors and take 1-2 samples (cuttings/shoots/leaves) from each sector.
Top view of tree for sampling
  • Altogether, you may collect 6-8 dormant wood cuttings per sample. Each of the cuttings should be about 6” long. Young shoots may also be submitted in spring (March-May).
  • Testing of phytoplasmas is best done from mature leaves in summer from July to September.
  • Place each sample in a ziplock bag and label it accordingly.
  • Fill in our sample submission form (available at our website).
  • Place the sample bag and the submission form into a cooler (Styrofoam box etc.), add a blue-ice block to keep the samples cool during transportation. Add some paper towels of newspaper to insulate the sample from the ice block.
  • Mail the box to the laboratory to arrive next day.

AL&L Crop Solutions, Inc.
7769 N. Meridian Rd.
Vacaville, CA 95688