Turf Disease Diagnostic Samples should be submitted observing the following procedures and be accompanied by a SUBMISSION FORM:

1. Samples should be taken using a cup-cutter if possible, to a depth of 3-4 inches. At least one sample should be taken from each affected green (fees will be assessed based on a per sample/green basis).

2. Samples should be taken from areas of active disease infection, generally on the margins of affected turf and include a range of symptoms.

3.Download the Disease Sample Submission Form below (in either PDF or Word Format) and print it out. Fill it out as COMPLETELY as possible. The more information you provide, the easier it is to make a diagnosis and the quicker the turn-around time.

PDF Format              MS Word 2001 Format

4. Samples can be submitted in person and through overnight mail services. If you do drop the sample off in person, please understand that it is often difficult to make an immediate diagnosis. More often than not, it may take 24-48 hours for us to conclusively identify your problem.

5. Do not send samples by overnight mail on Fridays (or late in the day on Thursdays). They will likely spend the weekend in a delivery truck or in a warehouse (neither environment will make the samples any easier to diagnose).

6. Do not water the sample. Wrap in in newspaper securely. In addition, avoid fungicide applications if you suspect a problem and intend to submit a sample. This will often make diagnosis very difficult.

7. It is a good idea to check the NEWS page on this site to ensure that the Diagnostic Lab will be open to receive your sample. Send samples to:

Dr. Nathaniel Mitkowski
236 Woodward Hall
URI/Plant Sciences
9 E. Alumni Dr., Suite 7
Kingston, RI 02881

8. To reduce paper work, it is preferred that you send a check with your sample ($75.00/ sample- for example, if you send samples from 2 greens, send $150.00). If not, we will bill you. See our Fee Schedule page for appropriate pricing.

9. You will be contacted by fax, phone or electronically with diagnosis and management information as soon as possible, generally within 24-48 hours, depending on our current sample volume and staff.