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Plant Disease Diagnostic Laboratory: Cutting-Edge Care from Our State-of-the-Art Facility
With 40+ years of expertise and a team of ISA-certified and Master Arborists, we get to the root cause of tree diseases—delivering precise diagnoses and timely, effective care.
PLANT DISEASE DIAGNOSTIC LAB
You care about your trees and want to keep them healthy—but diagnosing disease isn’t exactly a weekend project. That’s where we come in.
At Green Drop, we make it easy to protect your trees with real answers and expert care. Our state-of-the-art Plant Disease Diagnostic center, GD Laboratories in Winnipeg, is available to Green Drop Trees customers, and it’s built to catch problems early so you can take action fast.
Here’s what you can count on:
- A panel of experienced ISA-certified Arborists and Master Arborists.
- Cutting-edge technology for accurate results
- A team of plant pathologists and certified arborists who know what they’re looking for
- Diagnostic testing that follows international standards and best practices
- Clear answers and a treatment plan tailored to your landscape
If your trees seem off—wilting, yellowing, or just not thriving—don’t wait. Let our team diagnose the issue and help you take the right steps to bring your trees back to health.
*Service availability may vary by location.
WORKING WITH US
Why Choose Green Drop’s Plant Disease Diagnostic Laboratory
At Green Drop, we don’t guess—we diagnose. Our lab in Winnipeg gives your trees access to expert care backed by real science, smart tech, and decades of experience.
Here’s what makes our lab the go-to for tree health:
Expert Pathologists: Our team includes ISA-certified arborists and Master Arborists, plus specialists in plant pathology, so you’re in the best hands.
Internationally Recognized Protocols: We use cutting-edge lab technology and globally recognized protocols to get to the root of the issue—fast.
Clear, Actionable Results: No confusing jargon. Just reliable answers and a treatment plan tailored to your trees and your yard.
Fully Integrated Care: From testing to treatment, it’s all in-house. Our arborists work directly with the lab, so your trees get the care without delays.
Exclusive Access: Available only to Green Drop customers, this one-of-a-kind lab offers a level of care you won’t find anywhere else.
Community Engagement: We’re committed to keeping your landscape healthy and vibrant. We’ve planted over 64,000+ trees across the Prairies, helping build vibrant communities.
For municipalities and tree professionals who need straight answers about tree health
Our state-of-the-art lab supports you with expert diagnostics and actionable treatment plans. No guesswork. Just fast, accurate diagnostics from a lab that understands what’s at stake.
Here’s why people trust us with their trees
2,000+ 5 Star Reviews
J. Smith, Edmonton
“They did an amazing job leaving no mess.”
We had Terry, Don, Breann, Kol come to our residence to remove a very large 100 year old Elm tree that was diseased. They did an amazing job leaving no mess. They had to remove my temporary fence for access and re-built it that same day without any issues. Very Professional, would highly recommend.
Nick S, Edmonton
“He was friendly, courteous, and answered all my questions.”
This morning they were out front hard at work removing a large, dead tree. I spoke with a member of the crew, Cam, he was friendly, courteous, and answered all my questions. It's a rare sight nowadays to see a crew of yellow vests and everyone working.
Robert W, Edmonton
“Great service! They got it all done even though the tree needed a lot of work. Thanks again!”
Had the team come out and take care of pruning my giant Ash trees. Great service! They got it all done even though the tree needed a lot of work. Thanks again!
SERVICES
What is our Plant Disease Diagnostic Laboratory?
Equipped with the latest technology and staffed by plant pathology experts, our lab is a one-of-a-kind facility that allows us to accurately diagnose a wide range of tree and plant diseases—quickly and effectively. It’s a powerful tool that complements the care of our ISA-certified arborists, who’ve served Western Canada’s municipalities and homeowners for over 4 decades.
Simply put, this state-of-the-art facility is built to help you keep your trees and plants healthy, strong, and thriving.
What Kind of Tree Diseases Do We Test For?
We offer comprehensive, science-backed testing designed to identify the exact issue your trees are facing. Here’s what we test for:
Dutch Elm Disease (DED): One of the most destructive tree diseases out there. Carried by elm bark beetles, this fungal disease impacts a tree’s vascular system and can be fatal if not caught early. We use an agar plate test to detect it and recommend next steps quickly.
Other Elm Vascular Diseases: DED isn’t the only threat to elm trees. Fungi like Phoma, Verticillium, and Dothiorella can also damage their vascular system. We test for these using the same agar method to get ahead of the problem early.
Anthracnose: Notice dark spots or strange blotches on your Ash or Oak leaves? That could be anthracnose, a common fungal disease that spreads fast. We test for it, then guide you through the best treatment options to save your tree.
Black Knot: Plum or cherry trees with lumpy, black growths on branches? That’s likely black knot. It may not cause trunk rot, but it can weaken your tree and leave it vulnerable to other pests and diseases. We run black knot tests—especially in fall or winter when it’s easier to detect.
Fungal Cankers: Cankers are sunken or swollen lesions that can pop up on trees like oaks, spruces, and pines. They might not look like much at first, but they can slowly weaken your tree. We test early so you can take action before it gets worse.
Not seeing your tree’s symptoms on the list? No problem. We can build a custom test panel just for your yard to figure out what’s really going on.
Remember: Early detection means stronger, healthier trees.
*Service availability may vary by location. Reach out to your local Green Drop team for details.
Why Is Plant Health Testing So Important?
When trees and plants start to look unhealthy, it’s easy to overlook the signs or assume they’ll bounce back. But early testing can make all the difference—whether you’re a homeowner protecting your backyard or a municipality managing a city full of trees.
It Prevents Bigger, More Expensive Problems
Replacing a dead or damaged tree—especially a mature one—isn’t cheap. For homeowners, it can mean thousands in removal and replacement costs. For municipalities, that cost multiplies across city parks, boulevards, and public spaces. Early testing means early treatment, which means less disruption, less cost, and fewer trees lost.
It Keeps Outdoor Spaces Looking Great
For homeowners, healthy trees boost curb appeal and property value. For municipalities, it’s all about public perception and community pride. Lush green spaces, healthy boulevard trees, and thriving parklands make neighbourhoods more inviting and encourage outdoor activity, tourism, and long-term community investment.
It Helps Stop the Spread of Disease
Diseases like Dutch Elm or Black Knot don’t stay put—they spread quickly through communities. Since 1944, DED has killed millions of trees nationwide. For municipalities, early diagnosis helps contain outbreaks, protect urban forests, and avoid mass removals or quarantines.
It’s About Long-Term Stewardship
Whether you’ve planted a single sapling or overseen a city’s canopy, you want your trees to thrive for decades. Proactive testing adds a layer of defense, helping both individuals and cities make informed decisions and build healthier, more resilient green spaces.
Signs of Diseased Trees
Yellowing or Wilting Leaves (Out of Season)
Possible Causes:
- Dutch Elm Disease
- Verticillium Wilt
- Root rot or poor soil drainage
- Nutrient deficiencies
Fungal Growth on the Trunk or Roots
Possible Causes:
- Armillaria Root Rot
- Heart Rot
- Various Canker Diseases
Unusual Leaf Spots, Blotches, or Holes
Possible Causes:
- Anthracnose
- Tar Spot
- Leaf Blight or Leaf Miners
Black, Lumpy Growths on Branches
Possible Cause: Black Knot (common in cherry and plum trees)
Sunken or Cracked Bark, Oozing Sap
Possible Causes:
- Bacterial Wetwood
- Fungal Cankers
- Mechanical injury or frost cracks
Dieback of Branches from the Tips Inward
Possible Causes:
- Dutch Elm Disease
- Fire Blight
- Drought stress or root damage
Insect Activity or Small Holes in the Trunk
Possible Causes:
- Emerald Ash Borer
- Bark Beetles
- Wood-boring insects
Leaning Trees or Uplifted Roots
Possible Causes:
- Root rot
- Wind or storm damage
- Poor root structure or saturated soil
Call 1-833-928-TREE (8733) for immediate assistance!
How It Works
We’ve spent decades perfecting how we care for trees, and our lab is no exception. Backed by science, our process is designed to be effective—so you get answers you can trust.
Step 1: Sample Collection & Submission
First, we’ll guide you through collecting a sample of the affected tree or plant (don’t worry—we make it easy). You can drop it off or send it to our lab following our simple...
Step 2: Expert Analysis
Once your sample arrives, our plant pathologist and team get to work. Using proven diagnostic methods and advanced lab tools, we analyze the sample for signs of disease or stress.
Step 3: Get Your Results!
You’ll receive a clear, comprehensive report that tells you exactly what’s going on—and what to do next. We’ll outline treatment options, next steps, and how our arborists can help bring your trees back...
Get your free quote today.
Transform your outdoor space with our expert tree care services. Request a consultation now!
FAQs
Tree emergencies can be stressful, but knowing what to do—and who to call—makes all the difference. Here are some common questions about emergency tree care and how Green Drop can help when you need it most.
How do I know if I need to send in a sample?
How do I submit a sample?
Do I have to be a Green Drop customer to use the lab?
How long does it take to get results?
What happens after I get the results?
Where is your lab located?
Which specific municipalities or public sector clients has Green Drop worked with for tree care or urban forestry services?
Can you help cities manage Dutch Elm Disease outbreaks?
What does your DED management program involve?
Still have questions?
Give us a call or talk to your local Green Drop arborist. We’re here to help your trees live their best (and healthiest) life.
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At Green Drop Trees, we understand the importance of healthy trees for your landscape. Let us help you enhance your outdoor space with our expert tree care services.