Clemson University Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic

04/02/2026

We’re excited to host one of the leading researchers in banker‑plant systems in the United States.

On April 10 at 1:25 PM, we welcome Dr. Lance S. Osborne (University of Florida, MREC) for a Zoom‑only seminar titled “Banker Plants: What Are They Good For?”

Dr. Osborne has spent decades advancing applied biological control and shaping how growers and researchers use banker‑plant systems in greenhouse and nursery production. Our graduate students and our department are lucky to have him join us as next week’s seminar speaker.

Join us remotely — details on the flyer below.

Clemson ExtensionClemson University's College of Agriculture, Forestry & Life SciencesClemson Extension HorticultureClemson University Plant and Pest Diagnostic ClinicSouth Carolina Green Industry AssociationEntomological Society of AmericaAmerican Floral Endowment (AFE)University of FloridaGrowLiv Biologicals LtdUniversity of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences

03/24/2026

Something BUGGING you?

Our lab offers insect identification! We identify insect and arthropod pests of plants and those found in and around structures like homes, buildings, and office spaces.

Visit our website for sampling guidelines and the "Insect Identification" submission form: www.clemson.edu/ppdc

03/17/2026

Got your algae sample. Now what?

Fill out the "Plant or W**d Identification" form on our website: www.clemson.edu/ppdc

Take the sample and form to your local county extension office or deliver or ship the these items directly to our lab. Pay sample fee at the extension office, include a check with the shipment, or pay online using our Marketplace payment system.

Once the sample arrives, our specialist will evaluate the sample and write a report with all findings.

03/16/2026

Suspect an algal bloom in your pond? Follow these steps to collect a sample for our algae identification service.

03/11/2026

Columbia and Greenville you are next! Visit the link below for more information.

Mark your calendars for Bradford Pear Bounty 2026! Free native replacement trees in exchange for the removal of your invasive Bradford pear trees, up to five total per person. Register now as supplies are limited! Trees are available first-come first-served while supplies last!

🌳 Mt. Pleasant - February 28
🌳 Columbia - March 14
🌳 Greenville - March 28

💻Pre-registration is required. Get more info about participation criteria and available replacement trees on https://www.clemson.edu/extension/bradford-pear/index.html

FNR | Clemson Extension Clemson University's College of Agriculture, Forestry & Life Sciences Clemson Extension City of Greenville Parks and Recreation Conestee Nature PreserveCity of Columbia Government Columbia Green The Town of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina South Carolina Native Plant Society Clemson University Invasive Species Program

03/11/2026

Worried about diseases in your honey bees? Remember we offer molecular testing for both American and European foulbrood diseases in our lab.

More information can be found at: www.clemson.edu/public/regulatory/plant-problem/mppd.html

03/09/2026

As we enter spring, it’s a great time for beekeepers to inspect their colonies. A thorough check helps ensure your bees are strong and healthy for the season ahead.

While you’re in the hive, keep an eye out for signs (and smells) of foulbrood disease. Our lab can test for American or European foulbrood diseases if you find anything suspicious. Early detection is key to protecting your bees and your neighboring apiaries too!

Check out our honey bee testing services at: https://www.clemson.edu/public/regulatory/plant-problem/mppd.html

03/04/2026

Last week two of our diagnosticians traveled to the University of Florida for a workshop focusing on conventional and molecular techniques for bacterial isolation and identification. We enjoyed learning about and practicing new skills. We’re excited to bring these advanced techniques home and continue improving the quality and accuracy of our work.

Check out some photo highlights from our time there!