Oct 22, 2025NDSU seeking samples of diseased tubers for survey
North Dakota State University wants your diseased potato plants.
The university’s department of plant pathology is conducting a survey of pink rot and leak pathogens, including sensitivity to commonly used fungicides.
The department is requesting samples of tubers suspected to have those pathogens. Potato growers can contact Julie Pasche and [email protected] for pickup or send samples to: Julie Pasche, NDSU Plant Pathology Department, 1402 Albrecht Blvd., Walster Hall 306, Fargo, North Dakota, 58102. Growers are asked to send Pasche an email with tracking information.
Eight to 12 tubers per field is an optimum number, according to the university.
When packing rotted tubers, chose those with some healthy tissue, as researchers cannot isolate diseased tissue from completely rotted samples. Dry the periderm as much as possible and wrap in a dry paper towel. Pack in a plastic bag, but do not seal the bag. Ship in a sturdy box with some padding.
For more information, call 701-231-7547.
