Avocado cultivation faces a myriad of challenges due to the prevalence of pathogens and pests, ranging from the notorious Phytophthora root rot to the elusive Avocado Sunblotch Viroid. The resilience of avocado orchards against these threats relies on the early and accurate diagnosis of these diseases. Recognizing this critical need, the ARP Disease Clinic emerges as a beacon of support for avocado growers in South Africa, with a variety of diagnostic services tailored to pinpointing avocado diseases. Our mission is clear: to empower growers with the knowledge and tools necessary to combat existing threats and to stay vigilant against emerging ones. Through our efforts, we endeavor to ensure that South Africa's avocado industry remains resilient and poised to tackle the ever-evolving landscape of avocado pathogens. Contact us today for further information or a quote and let us partner in protecting the future of your avocado orchards.
How to sample for submissions?
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Identify diseased plant/s.
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Identify the symptoms (wilt, death, cankers, root rot, die-back etc.).
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Identify any environmental link to the symptoms, if possible.
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Take photographs of the symptoms, if possible.
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Samples should be taken from 4-5 randomly selected plants in an infection site.
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Package the samples separately in appropriate packaging (specified below) and label with the following: Collectors name, date, sample number, locality and cultivar.
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Complete online FABI Diagnostic Clinic: Sample Information Sheet.
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Pack samples in a sturdy box and send with the Sample Information Sheet to the Avocado Disease Clinic.
Specific tissue sampling
Leaves
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Collect individual leaves, place between blotting paper (paper towel), seal in an envelope and label the sample.
Stems/Branches
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Collect a sample that spans the diseased area, including +/- 2cm of healthy tissue on either side of the lesion.
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Place in a paper bag/ envelope and label the sample.
Roots/Soil
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Collect 150-300g of soil from under the diseased tree at a depth of 10-15 cm, seal in a plastic bag and label the sample.
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Collect root pieces (healthy and diseased) from the soil and seal in an envelope.
Online submission: FABI - ARP Diagnostic Clinic: Sample Information Sheet
Send the samples by fast mail or courier to the Avocado Disease Clinic @ FABI, give us a phone call and email to let us know to expect a parcel from you.
Disease Information Sheets
Contact Details
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FABI - Clinic Manager - Dr. Lieschen De Vos Tel: +27 (012) 420 3938/5826 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. |
ARP - Clinic Manager - Ms Alicia Vermeulen Tel: +27 (012) 420 3177 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. |
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Address:
Lunnon Road
University of Pretoria
FABI - Avocado Disease Clinic
Hatfield, Pretoria
South Africa
0002
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ARP Group Leader Prof Noelani van den Berg Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. |
