A plant pathologist is a professional who specializes in plant health, much like a physician specializing in human health or a veterinarian in animal health. Our on-staff plant pathologists cooperate with plant breeders, crop management, insect and weed specialists in developing integrated, environmentally sound approaches to managing crops and their pests.

We have unusual challenges brought to us all the time at Denele. Many times, the mystery of a discolored leaf, strange larva in a fruit, or anything else you can imagine, can be solved via pure science and experience. That’s why we are so proud of our farming heritage and our plant pathology background. If you have a basic question or an urgent problem, stop by the lab and show us what you’re dealing with – we can help.

Plant diseases are caused by a variety of living organisms, called pathogens. This includes fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes, phytoplasmas and parasitic plants. They can also be caused by nonliving agents, such as air pollutants, nutrient imbalances, and various environmental factors. New diseases and changes in existing pathogens remain a constant challenge for California agriculture.

Keeping plants healthy requires an understanding of organisms and agents that cause disease as well as an understanding of how plants grow and are affected by disease. We take your issues seriously, and you can be assured that our results and advice are backed by a Certified Plant Pathologist.