R&D update - Free plant testing: know what you're dealing with before it costs you
24 June 2026
24 June 2026
When something's not right in your nursery - distorted growth, unexplained decline, plants that just aren't performing - the instinct is to act fast. But treating the wrong problem wastes time, money and product.
A grower recently submitted plants showing distorted new growth, expecting a virus. Lab results confirmed mite damage instead. One targeted treatment. Problem solved. No costly virus management program and no guesswork.
That's the difference a confirmed diagnosis makes.
Free testing available until 2031
Through a levy-funded service, production nurseries can access up to six free plant diagnostic samples each calendar year until January 2031. Water and growing media testing is also free.
Testing is delivered by Queensland DPI's Grow Help Australia team and covers fungal, bacterial, viral, mite and insect pest issues. Initial results are typically back within a few days, with practical advice included.
If you need more than six samples, up to 12 additional tests are available at 50% cost.
Why it matters on the ground
Similar symptoms - distorted leaves, poor root development, plant decline - can have completely different causes. Pests, pathogens, nutrition, environmental stress. Without a confirmed diagnosis, it's easy to spend money treating the wrong problem. Similar symptoms can be caused by pests, pathogens, nutrition issues or environmental stress, and each requires a different response.
The impact:
70% of growers reported improved plant health
67% reduced pest and disease incidence
Lower input costs and fewer plant discards.
89% of participants found the recommendations were relevant to their business
84% used the recommendations to resolve the issue and implement changes
43% found a reduction in management costs
53% found a decrease in pest and disease incidence.
Nearly 2,400 samples have been submitted nationally since 2021, with strong uptake across Victoria and New South Wales.
Getting the best result from your sample
Submit fresh material as soon as possible
Include both healthy and affected plants
Package carefully before transport.
Access the service
Visit Grow Help Australia for submission instructions and the online form, or contact the team directly at growhelp@dpi.qld.gov.au
