Extension Educator how-to

How to Identify a Plant Problem from a Sample

Diagnosis helps growers act.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Diagnosis helps growers act. In short: ask; examine; check, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Ask about symptoms.

  2. Examine the sample.

  3. Check for pests.

  4. Compare to references.

  5. Send to the lab if needed.

  6. Recommend action.

Safety reminders for extension educators

  • Follow pesticide safety
  • Follow youth protection rules
  • Drive safely
  • Follow farm safety

USDA · Yield · Crop rotation · Extension service · Sustainability · Cooperative extension: see the full extension educator glossary.

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