What tools help diagnose plant health issues?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Identify every potential plant health concern starting with the proper tools for diagnosis. Early in my career, I made a critical error in diagnosing a magnesium deficiency as blight, which resulted in the loss of an entire crop. I later purchased a soil meter for $20 and identified the problem! If an accurate diagnostic tool is available for the problem, it can help save time and money.
Visual Inspection Tools
- 10x-40x magnifiers: Detect fungal hyphae and mite eggs
- UV flashlights: Reveal insect secretions invisible in daylight
- Cost: $15-$200 based on magnification
Soil Analysis Gear
- EC/pH meters: Spot salinity spikes above 1.4 dS/m
- Soil probes: Sample root zones at 6-8 inch depth
- Calibration: Weekly with 4.0/7.0 buffer solutions
Environmental Monitors
- Infrared thermometers: Track leaf surface temps
- Data loggers: Record 24/7 humidity fluctuations
- Ideal range: 65-80°F/18-27°C for most crops
Combine tools for reliable diagnoses. Last year, my soil meter indicated that there were normal pH levels in my garden, yet the plants continued to yellow. Upon inspection with my hand lens, I began to see aphids taking sap from the plants; so, you can see by layering your checks, it matters. Update your toolkit every year. I recently added a thermal camera last fall, to assess microclimates.
Longevity Practices
- Clean lenses: Use 70% alcohol wipes after each use
- Store meters: Keep in 40-70°F/4-21°C with silica gel
- Update guides: Refresh disease databases biannually
Different factors require tools to be adjusted as seasons change. In summer, daily checks of moisture with tensiometers that run $50 are a must. In winter, look for cankers on bark instead. I keep a frost blanket, and a soil thermometer in my shed which help me in the event of an unexpected cold day for young seedlings I have planted.
Read the full article: Identify Plant Diseases: Detection & Control Guide
