FLORIDA EXTENSION PLANT DIAGNOSTIC CLINIC - QUINCY

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTING SAMPLES

This form provides the necessary information for submitting samples to the Clinic.  The manner in which samples are collected, preserved, and submitted ensures a proper identification in a timely, and efficient way. Materials needed for submission of samples include:

 1) a Florida Extension Plant Diagnostic Clinic Sample Submission Form
 2) a zip lock bag (provided by sender)
 3) a mailing tube or some kind of shipping container (provided by sender)

Submitting samples:
1) Put as much information as possible on the Sample Submission Form .  WRITE WITH A PENCIL OR PERMANENT INK PEN that will resist smearing.
2) Place the Sample Submission Form inside the zip lock bag.  The bag will protect the paperwork from damage.  Put the zip lock bag and the specimen inside the shipping container.
3) Mail samples early in the week to avoid the weekend layover in the post office.
4) For emergency samples, use overnight courier services or US overnight mail.
5) Please make out the check payable ($20/sample) to the Florida Extension Plant Diagnostic Clinic-Quincy. Do not send cash.

 ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTING INSECT SAMPLES

1) Place your specimens in the vial and fill with an alcohol solution.  The alcohol preserves the insect so it will not decay.  Screw the cap on or insert the stopper into the vial tightly.  Many times the alcohol leaks out during shipment and the specimen is destroyed by the time it is received.  The one exception to using alcohol is moths and butterflies.  These should be placed between layers of waxed paper and enclosed in an envelope.
2) Be sure that your name appears on the Sample Form and on the insect vial.

 ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTING PLANT SAMPLES

1) Submit generous amounts of plant material representing a range of symptoms.
2) Do not add water or pack a sample that is wet.
3) Keep samples refrigerated after collection until they are submitted.
4) Do not mix samples in the same submission bag.
5) Samples arriving from sites in Florida that are 2 days or less mailing time from Quincy, can be sealed in plastic bags for shipping.
6) Samples arriving from distances greater than 2 days mailing time from Quincy should be packed tightly in a box with dry paper.  Do not seal in plastic because of the likelihood of sample deterioration during the mailing period.  Do not add moisture.