The Pocket Diagnostic^® Phytophthora rapid lateral flow test is a genus-specific test designed for the in-field detection of many Phytophthora species including Phytophthora ramorum (Sudden oak death), Phytophthora infestans (Blight, Late blight), Phytophthora kernoviae, Phytophthora lateralis, Phytophthora cinnamomi, Phytophthora cactorum and others.

When using our test you can detect Phytophthora in a wide range of plant material, including woody tissues, leaves and roots.

Our Phytophthora rapid test utilises lateral flow technology to easily and reliably detect Phytophthora spp in a matter of minutes: the speed of results, therefore, allows for faster decision making in the event of a positive test result. This is why government inspectors, advisers, growers and plant disease experts all over the world use this test during their routine plant disease management.

The benefits of using the Pocket Diagnostic^® Phytophthora rapid test include:

• Rapid results in 10 minutes
• Faster decision making and interventions
• Portable, in-field use
• Simple user process
• All components supplied
• No training required

Manufactured by Abingdon Health, UK, under ISO 9001.

What is Phytophthora?

Phytophthora (name derived from the Greek ‘plant destroyer’) species are microscopic, fungus-like organisms. After honey fungus, Phytophthora root rot is arguably the most common cause of root and stem base decay of a wide range of trees, shrubs & plants.  The species causing root and stem base decay are found within the soil, where they may survive for many years in the absence of a host plant. The organism attacks the root system and reduces the root area available for water and nutrient uptake and therefore above ground symptoms often mimic water/environmental stress. There are a number of different Phytophthora species, all causing very similar symptoms.  Herbaceous perennials, bedding plants, soft fruits, pot plants and even bulbs can also be affected, in addition to woody plants. There are often no definitive above ground signs of infection – particularly in the early stages – so taking samples for laboratory testing has been critical for detection and management. Consequently, the availability of a rapid & accurate field test for Phytophthora is a very useful tool indeed.

How to Use

The test involves simply gathering a sample of living material from the tree/plant ie leaf, phloem tissue, stem or root;

• Add to the buffer solution provided (which also includes several ball bearings to macerate the tissue)
• Shake vigorously for approximately a couple of minutes
• Allow the solution to settle and add 2 drops of the liquid onto your test strip.
• Only one test per tree/plant will be conclusive if the correct testing procedure is followed.

In addition to Phytophthora, LFT tests are also available for Erwinia amylovora (Fireblight); Ralstonia solanacearum (Bacterial Wilt Disease) & Potato virus Y (PVY).

Pocket Diagnostic are the UK leaders in producing plant health rapid lateral flow tests which are unrivalled in terms of sensitivity and reliability. They have appointed Sorbus as their exclusive UK distributor.