Notice of Fee Increase
Starting May 1, 2024, the URI Plant Diagnostic Lab fees will increase to $20 per sample. The current fee ($10 per sample) has not changed in three decades, while the cost of consumables has risen several times in that period. We hope you understand the need for an adjustment, which will result in a better service. Thank you for your cooperation.
The URI Plant Diagnostic Laboratory is a fee-based service of URI Cooperative Extension. The laboratory diagnoses and provides recommendations for plant diseases, insects, weeds, and abiotic problems for samples submitted by agricultural and horticultural growers, landscape professionals and the general public in Rhode Island. The lab does not identify 1) insects found on animals or on humans; or 2) mold or fungi found in the home. For information on these topics, visit the UConn Home and Garden Education Center and click on “Household Pests”.
Turfgrass Diagnostic Services for commercial clients (golf courses, athletics, sod farms) is provided by Dr. Nathaniel Mitkowski at the Turf Diagnostic Laboratory www.uriturf.org
The URI Plant Diagnostic Laboratory is part of the National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN) and works closely with a number of URI departments and programs to provide diagnostic services and science-based education to Extension staff, volunteers and clients.
To Submit a sample, a follow these steps:
- Anyone who has a plant health problem can submit samples to the URI Plant Diagnostic Laboratory. First, be sure to read the Sample Collection, Packaging, and Shipping Guidelines for the specific type of sample (click the buttons above).
- Fill the specific submission form based on the type of sample you are submitting. Provide as much of the information we request on the sample submission form – this will help us diagnose the issue!
- Send images or photos to plantlab@uri.edu with [Insect/Plant/Turf Sample photos_Your Name] in the subject line of the email.
Laboratory Fees and Payments:
Include a check payable to “URI” for $20.00 per sample with the sample(s) and form(s).
The fee covers microscopic examination of the sample, incubation of fungi and bacteria, testing with serological test and culturing of the organisms if needed. NOTE: If molecular identification is needed, additional charges may apply and the diagnostician will contact you prior to conducting additional tests.
Sending your Samples:
You may mail or hand deliver samples (Mon-Fri, 9-4 p.m.) to the URI Plant Diagnostic Laboratory at:
Kathleen M. Mallon Outreach Center
℅ Plant Diagnostic Laboratory
3 East Alumni Avenue
Kingston, RI 02881
Diagnostic Reports
Once samples are submitted, diagnostic reports and recommendations are sent back to the submitter via email within 5 to 10 days of the sample arriving at the URI Plant Diagnostic Laboratory. Keep an eye out for an email with the subject line: “URI Plant Diagnostic Laboratory Report”.
Mailing Address
URI Cooperative Extension
℅ Plant Diagnostic Laboratory
3 East Alumni Avenue
Kingston, RI 02881
Tel: 401-874-2900
Fax: 401-874-2259
Director/ Diagnostician, Plant Diagnostic Laboratory
401-874-2967
PlantLab@uri.edu || Keiddy@uri.edu
