Plant health is essential for the productivity and sustainability of the horticultural, forestry and agricultural industries. Plant health is determined by a complex interaction between the host plant, environment and pathogen/pest(s). Our comprehensive plant health services are able to investigate each component and provide evidence-based recommendations to improve plant health with minimal adverse environmental impacts.
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We have also recognised the need for a complete plant health service that includes the interpretation and translation of complex scientific data into real world plant health solutions. This service includes sampling design, appropriate sample collection by experienced consultants, appropriate test selection, result interpretation and management recommendations across plant pathology, soil and plant sciences. This approach reduces false negative results, sampling errors and leads to a better diagnostic outcome, appropriate control treatments, more effective management and ultimately improved plant health with reduced costs.
OUR SERVICES
Determining the cause of tree/plant decline
This comprehensive service determines the cause of tree/plant decline and is able to rule out environmental (toxicity, water logging etc) from biotic causes (plant pathogens, insect borers, viruses etc). The service includes sample design, sample collection, diagnostic testing & results interpretation.
Sampling design, collection, diagnostic testing & results interpretation
Planning at the initial/engagement phase of work will allow for a cost effective and robust dataset designed to meet the objectives of the project. Thorough sample design allows for more reliable result interpretation and minimises the risk of timely resampling events through inconclusive results.
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Plant Pathogen control strategies
Where applicable, provides detailed advice on chemical and biological control strategies for controlling plant pathogens.
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Soil chemistry testing and interpretation with respect to plant health
Provides a full service for determining soil chemistry with respect to plant health & can also be useful for ruling out herbicide vandalism.
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Development of Plant Hygiene Protocols
Develops organisational or site specific protocols to prevent the spread of pathogens into or within the site under the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (IPSM).
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Delimiting surveys
Design and conduct plant pathogen surveys to define the spread of a pathogen within a specified area in order to establish the quarantine zone or Restricted Area (RA). These surveys are invaluable for planning and establishing plant hygiene protocols that prevent the further spread of a pathogen(s).
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Wood decay fungal detection, Internal Diagnostic Testing & Prognosis
This service uses the IML Resistograph® drill to determine the extent of decay in standing trees and determines the wood decay fungal species involved. This information can be useful for estimating the likelihood of failure and future prognosis. A report with arboricultural recommendations is provided. IML Resistograph® drilling is used to measure the extent of decay within a tree or visible defect and calculate the t/R ratio (the ratio of sound wood to the radius). This information can be useful for determining hazards and the likelihood of future failure. A report summarising and interpreting the results with arboricultural recommendations is provided.
Plant Pathology Management Plans
Develops a comprehensive Plant Pathology Management Plan under the guiding principles of Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPDM). The plan develops a strategy based on the organism’s biology, site environmental factors (soil chemistry, drainage etc.), site eradication/quarantine potential,
chemical/ biological controls and host resistance. This coordinated strategy maximises the effectiveness of each component and ultimately reduces the economic, aesthetic and environmental burden of plant disease.