Consult with the table below to determine which parts of the plant to sample. Please keep tissue samples cool in paper bags and bring them to the lab shortly after sampling. Do not use plastic bags as the samples can sweat and start to mold, negatively impacting results. Submission forms for tissues can be found under the Files & Online Submissions tab and must be submitted with each sample in order to ensure proper testing is performed.

Tissue Sample Guide Matrix

For use: Find the crop you are sampling. The Stage of the crop determines which Plant Part to Sample and the Quantity of those parts necessary to perform analyses. If you have questions, contact the lab prior to sampling. Use all three amounts (weight, volume, and quantity) to guide your subsampling procedures to ensure enough sample for testing. For example, if 25 plants for alfalfa does not yield a 1/3 cup of sample, collect more. Stressed plants may be undersized and will require more plants to be sampled.

*VOLUME AND WEIGHT: These sections are relevant to properly subsampled plant tissues according to the table below. If a full plant is being tested, contact the lab before sampling.

The Lab Required Minimum Weight does not guarantee a representative sample, but only guarantees enough sample for testing when properly subsampled.

Volumes are an estimate that typically results in enough sample weight submitted for testing.

Quantity is the ideal number of plants to achieve a representative subsample, but may be too few or too many depending on growth stage and crop condition to meet other submission criteria.**