As part of Iowa Sate University Extension & Outreach the PIDC diagnoses plant problems, identifies insects, and tests for plant parasitic nematodes.
The Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic is the emergency room for plant problems sent to Iowa State University. We diagnose plant diseases and disorders; test for nematodes; identify insects, and recommend management”. We are part of the National Plant Diagnostic Network.
07/06/2026
Upcoming American The American Phytopathological Society webinar-
Join us on July 15 when Dr. Chelsea Harbach (Iowa State University) will share how she's evolved her practice for the digital age. Get practical tools, honest talk, and ideas you'll actually use.
https://www.apsnet.org/edcenter/resources/Webinars/Pages/Extension-Series-2.aspx
07/02/2026
The PIDC will be closed, along with the rest of campus, on Friday, July 3rd. Have a great holiday and stay safe! We'll see you and your plant health problems on MONDAY!
06/17/2026
PIDC diagnostic specialists will be partially out of the office June 17-19, completely out of the office on June 22 and June 23, and partially out of the office from June 24th to June 26th for a work-related conference. A technician will be available to receive samples and begin the diagnostic process, but some replies, services, and reports may be delayed until we return. We can still be reached by email at [email protected]. Thank you for your understanding!
06/05/2026
I was shocked to see symptoms of abiotic leaf scorch showing up in the oak in front of my home already this year! Typically, I don't see abiotic leaf scorch show up until later in the summer. However, we've had quite the dry spring, and this tree is growing in the right-of-way, which can further limit water. These symptoms are often mistaken for oak wilt. We typically don't see oak wilt symptoms appear until July. Here's a write-up from Michigan State University I like to share with folks: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/leaf-scorch-or-oak-wilt-what-s-plaguing-my-tree
05/28/2026
Symptoms consistent with off-target herbicide exposure/injury are starting to show up in the garden and landscape. Here's all you need to know about herbicide injury on garden plants.
https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/encyclopedia/herbicide-injury-garden-plants
note: the PIDC does not test for or confirm herbicide exposure/injury on plants.
05/07/2026
05/06/2026
I attended one of the Safe Mushroom Foraging programs put on by ISU Extension and Outreach's Natural Resources Field Specialist, Gina. It was a lot of fun! Highly recommend checking otu these programs to help get you connected with nature! https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/programs/safe-mushroom-foraging
What is IPM?
Integrated Pest Management is a smart, science‑based approach to managing pests. IPM combines regular monitoring, prevention, and multiple control strategies to solve pest problems with the least risk to people and the environment.
The goal? Healthy plants, safe spaces, and fewer unnecessary treatments.
Don’t forget to use all the tools in your toolbox!
Need help? Submit a sample to the Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic (PIDC) using their website: https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/pidc
Iowa State University Department of Horticulture ISU Plant & Insect Diagnostic Clinic Iowa State Extension Yard and Garden
04/15/2026
"Wow! That was some serious heat going on!"
Integrated Pest Management 28 likes, 5 comments. "I Stuck a Meat Thermometer in a Leaf Pile… It Got Hot!"
04/03/2026
Taking care of your daffodils- Gardening with Steil!
Taking Care of Daffodils | Gardening With Steil Aaron Steil from Gardening With Steil offers tips on how to take care of one of his favorite spring flowers - the daffodil.