To submit insects and plants for identification and diseases for diagnosis, it is now simpler for Iowans. In an effort to streamline processes, the Iowa State University Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic has updated and simplified submission forms for receiving requests for diagnosis for plant problems and insect, plant or mushroom identification.

Through the ISU Extension Store and through the Clinic website, the “Plant Nematode Sample Submission Form” (PIDC 0032) and “Sample Submission Form” (PIDC 0045) are now available. These two forms replace six forms that were previously available for submitting samples.

Director and extension entomologist with the Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic, Laura Iles said, “These are the forms that must accompany any samples sent to the clinic. They provide the information we need to diagnose the samples sent in by our clients and we wanted to make sure they were as user-friendly as possible.”

Clients will also find a change in billing policy, who are submitting samples to the clinic. clients will be billed at the time of diagnosis; money no longer needs to be submitted with the sample.

The Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic provides diagnosis of plant problems and the identification of insects and weeds from the field, garden and home. In operation for over 50 years, the clinic helps Iowans diagnose and identify about 1,500 samples each year.

Iles said, “We are the first step people should take before attempting to manage any plant or insect problem. A proper initial diagnosis will insure that the management practices employed will work. We try to emphasize that rather than guessing what the problem might be and applying a pesticide, you should send us a sample so we can properly diagnose the problem. We can then provide you with the best management information for your specific plant or insect problem. Applying unnecessary pesticides will not solve your problem and leads to negative environmental and human health impacts.”