The video below shows one of our tests being used in the field. The test being used is our Phytophthora rapid test but this user-method is the same for all of our tests.

The following page describes the simple process of using Pocket Diagnostic® lateral flow rapid test strips for plant diseases. The Pocket Diagnostic® range will detect a number of plant pathogens such as Phytophthora spp. (Potato blight, Sudden Oak Death, ramorum blight), Erwinia amylovora (Fire blight), Potato virus Y and Ralstonia solanacearum (Bacterial wilt/Brown rot).
All tests operate in the same way. However, there is a slightly different approach when testing wood samples.
Always read the instructions provided with the kits before use.
VIDEO: Adding a sample to a test
The video below shows one of our tests being used in the field. The test being used is our Phytophthora rapid test but this user-method is the same for all of our tests.
Select symptomatic plant material from where the healthy material meets the diseased material. As a general rule, we recommend that the sample should weigh approx. 0.2g or 25x25mm in size. It’s important to wash any soil and other debris from the plant material sample prior to adding to the bottle.
Selection of the most appropriate sample ensures accurate and reliable results.
The unique ‘bottle and ball’ sample preparation method sufficiently breaks down plant material after only 30-60 seconds of shaking. After shaking the sample should be left to settle prior to a few drops being removed from the top of buffer and added to the tests device.
This easy and clean approach enables Pocket Diagnostic® plant disease tests to be used on the following plant material:
Hard materials may require slightly longer shaking to ensure adequate sample breakdown.
Example of a test used incorrectly
Below is an example of what can happen if too much debris and plant material are added to the test strip. There is too much debris preventing the test from working properly. Hence why it has not run properly.
Flooded sample well and viewing window
Always read the instruction before using Pocket Diagnostic®.
#GFPF_GEFF Cork oak sample positive for Phytophthora (probably P. cinnamomi) (encre du chêne) @PlantDiagnostic #rapid #diagnostic pic.twitter.com/v4uC2HoATh
— Pascal Frey (@pascal_frey) 28 September 2016
We’ve been out with consultant Oli, a Turkey Oak that was starting to show signs of distress @PlantDiagnostic pic.twitter.com/aMISnvnNMY
— CHTS Ltd (@CHTSLtd) 5 August 2016
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