What should be avoided when preparing plant samples for submission?

When preparing plant samples for submission, avoiding the addition of water to preserve freshness is crucial. Water can promote the growth of molds and bacteria, which can alter the integrity of the sample and potentially affect diagnostic results. Additionally, excess moisture can lead to decomposition or changes in the plant tissues, making it more challenging to accurately identify pest problems or disease issues.

Opting for methods such as refrigeration or specific wrapping techniques can be beneficial in keeping samples fresh and preventing degradation during transport. Refrigerating samples typically helps slow down the metabolic processes of the plant material, preserving quality until examination. Likewise, wrapping samples in breathable materials, rather than plastic bags, ensures that air circulates, reducing the risk of moisture accumulation.

Submitting only leaf sections can also be appropriate in many scenarios, particularly when leaves are where the primary symptoms or pest interactions occur. However, the complete plant or multiple parts (e.g., stems, roots) may sometimes be necessary for a comprehensive diagnosis.