MU plant clinic sees increase in samples

By Blake Jackson

The MU Plant Diagnostic Clinic saw a significant increase in both physical and digital samples submitted in 2023 compared to the previous year. The clinic processed over 900 physical samples and 250 sets of digital images, with disease diagnosis making up most of the physical submissions.

A substantial portion of the samples, particularly elderberry samples, were submitted for a research project. In-state submissions originated from various counties, with most samples coming from commercial clients. Fruits, mainly due to the research project, were the most common sample type, followed by field crops and ornamentals.

Among diagnosed fruits and vegetables, tomatoes and apples were the most frequent submissions. Early in the season, chemical damage was observed in some vegetable samples, while root and crown rot diseases and foliar diseases were prevalent throughout the year.

The drought conditions experienced in 2022 and 2023 caused stress-related problems for various plants. Early in the year, fungal and bacterial diseases were scarce due to unfavorable conditions. However, drought stress impacted woody ornamentals, leading to submissions of diseased samples from multiple counties.

Other ornamentals, vegetables, fruit trees, and turfgrass generally showed fewer disease issues. However, late-season rains triggered oomycete diseases like root and crown rot in stressed plants.

The drought also exacerbated herbicide damage, as the lack of rain hindered the breakdown of herbicides, leading to prolonged exposure and increased damage to crops and vegetation.

Predicting plant performance and disease prevalence after multiple drought years is challenging. The mild and dry winter of 2023, combined with the recent cold spell, might lead to cold damage in ornamental plants this year. Additionally, continued drought in spring could stress all plant types again.

The MU Plant Diagnostic Clinic plays a vital role in diagnosing plant health issues, providing valuable information to clients and researchers, and aiding in the development of effective management strategies for future seasons.

Photo Credit: university-of-missouri