The WSU Pullman Plant Diagnostic Clinic is closed as of December 1, 2025. For alternative diagnostic support, please contact your local WSU Extension specialist, Master Gardener Coordinator, or other diagnostic resources, such as:
- WSU Puyallup Plant & Insect Diagnostic Lab – Jenny Glass (jennyglass@wsu.edu,253-445-4582)
- Oregon State University Hermiston Plant Disease Clinic – Dr. Ken Frost or Cassandra Funke (cassandra.funke@oregonstate.edu, 541-567-8321 ext. 120 or (Kenneth.Frost@oregonstate.edu)
- University of Idaho Parma REC Diagnostic Lab – Dr. James Woodhall (jwoodhall@uidaho.edu)
- Richard Old, Weed Identification (rold@pullman.com)
If you need further assistance, please contact Melissa Bills, Administrative Manager for the WSU Department of Plant Pathology (melissa.bills@wsu.edu, 509-335-4852) or Dr. Lindsey du Toit, Chair of the Department of Plant Pathology (dutoit@wsu.edu, 360-848-6140).
Please complete the Insect Identification Form (pdf) and submit with the sample.
- Include three to five intact insects in a sample if possible.
- Capture insects and immediately kill by freezing overnight.
- Pack insects gently with tissues or cotton in a glass or plastic bottle.
- If desired, include a plant sample showing damage in a separate bag or container.
- Place vial containing samples in a crush-proof box for mailing.
**If you plan to drop off a sample you may kill the insect by placing it in 70% alcohol. However, do not place butterflies, moths, or bees in alcohol, as key diagnostic features will be ruined.
Note: It is illegal to mail samples preserved in alcohol as it is considered a flammable liquid.
Please do not send live insects, crushed insects or insects caught on tape or on sticky traps.