Methods for managing the disease are provided. If possible, ask your county extension educator to examine the sample first. Your extension educator is often able to diagnose many local pest problems quickly or may notice key features at the site which facilitate diagnosis. Follow the directions below. We need information on the name of the plant, the symptoms observed, the cropping or gardening history of the site, irrigation practice, fertilizer and pesticide usage, soil texture, distribution of the problem in the field or yard, degree of soil compaction and so forth.
Photographs are very helpful in diagnosis especially for turf and tree problems.
Freehand sketches of landscape plantings showing relationships to sidewalks, watering and drainage, the house, and so forth, also reveal possible causes of the disease. Include as much information as possible because this will increase the chances of a rapid and precise diagnosis. Include the EPPL Sample form , available here and at your county extension office along with the sample. Include a variety of symptoms, ranging from healthy to severely diseased. This can deteriorate a sample very quickly.