Plant Health Laboratory (PHL)
Introduction
Welcome to the Plant Health Laboratory Web Page. The PHL is Ireland's national plant health testing laboratory. The PHL was formally established in June 2007 and is mainly focused on fungal diseases of horticulture and forestry. Ireland, because of its relative geographical isolation is free of many of the diseases, which occur in other jurisdictions. The PHL aims, in conjunction with the plant health inspection service, to help Ireland to maintain this status by providing a rapid and efficient diagnostic service for diseases which may be introduced into this country through trade or other means.
Services provided
The Laboratory conducts a range of plant health tests on samples submitted from various Divisions within DAFF and private individuals. Among the services provided are:
Plant Health Testing
The PHL tests for a range of mycological organisms, including:
Phytophthora ramorum & Phytophthora kernoviae, which cause sudden oak death (SOD)
Ciborinia camelliae (camellia flower blight) on camellia species
Colletotrichum acutatum affecting strawberry
Phytophthora fragariae var. fragariae affecting strawberry
Phytophthora cactorum affecting strawberry
Guignardia citricarpa (citrus black spot)
Monilinia fructicola affecting stone fruit
Cylindrocladium buxicola (box blight)
Potato mycological diseases
Viruses
Beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV)
Pepino Mosaic Virus (PepMV)
Miscellaneous samples
Public samples
The Laboratory may accept samples from members of the public. Please note that fees may apply. For instructions on how to sample and submit material for testing, please contact the Laboratory.
Useful links
Further information can be found on the following websites:
European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation (EPPO)
Horticulture and Plant Health Division
Contact us
Address:
Plant Health Laboratory (PHL),
DAFF Laboratories,
Backweston,
Celbridge,
Co. Kildare,
Ireland.
Secretariat:
Tel: +353 (0) 1 615 7518
Fax: +353 (0) 1 615 7196
E-mail: planthealthlab@agriculture.gov.ie
