OBJECTIVES

Teach students how to approach plant problem diagnosis with an emphasis on plant diseases. Plant diseases will be defined in the broad sense including abiotic as well as biotic factors.

Integrate diagnostic learning with learning about crop production systems. Many plant problems stem from improper crop management.

• View real plant problem situations in the field.

• Observe and investigate how real people (growers, fieldmen, consultants, county agents, etc.) diagnose or solve these real problems.

• Learn the limitations and power of simple and high tech diagnostic techniques. The objective is focused on test interpretation and not on performing the test itself. Examples include humid chamber, microscopy including light and EM, ELISA, baermann funnel, etc.

• Become familiar with useful reference texts and their power and limitations

• Have some familiarity or working knowledge of services available for diagnostic help. This will include both private and public laboratories.

• Have fun!