Pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, and viruses can severely damage plants if left undiagnosed and untreated. Our external lab specializes in identifying and managing plant diseases through a combination of laboratory testing and field analysis. We collect plant samples for microscopic examination, run laboratory cultures externally, and use molecular techniques to pinpoint the specific pathogens responsible for disease.
Based on our findings, we recommend targeted treatments such as fungicides, bactericides or organic solutions to prevent further spread and restore plant health. Our Pathology service ensures that plant diseases are effectively diagnosed and managed at the source.
What is Pathology?
Pathology testing is the process of diagnosing and identifying diseases, infections or other health issues that affect the growth and wellbeing of trees. Pathology tests use a variety of tools and techniques to detect harmful pathogens such as fungi, bacteria or viruses that may be causing damage to the health of a tree.
Why conduct Pathology testing?
Pathology tests help identify the cause of ailing trees, which in turns helps our team of specialist’s hand tailor customised treatments to combat the pathogen while also preventing it from spreading to other plants.
How are Pathology tests conducted?
Most pathology tests begin with simple visual inspections of symptomatic trees by trained arborists or pathologists. Discoloured leaves, stunted growth and fungal bodies growing out of the body of the tree are some of the most obvious signs. The test also usually involves an assessment of the tree’s environment, including the condition of the soil to help determine the cause of infection.
Once infection from a pathogen is suspected, samples of various parts of the tree that are showing symptoms are sent for analysis in a laboratory where they undergo a series of tests such as microscopic examination, DNA sequencing, culture testing and more. Once an infection is both confirmed and identified, treatment is often applied alongside the recommendations of specialists to ensure a healthy recovery.