Contact Patho Solutions
Reach the plant pathology laboratory in Wellington about plant testing, nursery certification, vineyard scouting, block indexing, ELISA kits, or sample submissions. We reply from info@pathsol.co.za.
FAQ
Plant virus testing in South Africa
Who is Patho Solutions?
Patho Solutions is a plant pathology practice and research station in Wellington, Western Cape. We specialise in the detection and control of agricultural diseases caused by viruses and virus-like pathogens, including laboratory plant testing, plant inspection, vineyard scouting, and applied research for producers and nurseries in South Africa.
Where is Patho Solutions located?
Our laboratory and offices are at 143 Olifantskop road, Soetendal, Wellington, Western Cape, South Africa 7654. You can reach us on 021 300 2101 or info@pathsol.co.za.
What plant virus testing does Patho Solutions offer?
We provide plant virus testing by ELISA and molecular methods such as PCR and LAMP. Tests cover grapevine viruses (including leafroll-associated viruses), pome and stone fruit viruses, potato viruses, avocado sunblotch viroid, and other pathogens used in diagnostic and certification programmes.
Do you test for grapevine leafroll (GLRaV-3)?
Yes. Grapevine leafroll-associated virus 3 is a core part of our work. We run ELISA and PCR diagnostics, sell a GLRaV-3 ELISA kit, and operate a leafroll control programme that combines plant inspection and block scouting of red cultivars with grid indexing of white cultivars.
How do producers submit samples for testing?
Samples can be submitted through Testify (LIMS) or with the crop-specific collection guides and submission forms on our diagnostic testing page. Forms are available for grapevine, pome and stone fruit, potato, cannabis, vegetables, and ornamentals.
Is Patho Solutions a plant pathology laboratory in South Africa?
Yes. Patho Solutions is a plant pathology laboratory and research station in Wellington, Western Cape. We provide plant testing for viruses and virus-like pathogens to producers, nurseries, and certification schemes across South Africa.
Do you offer nursery verification or certification testing?
Yes. We support nursery verification through plant improvement certification testing. Many grapevine tests are offered for the Vine Improvement Association (VIA) scheme, and several pome and stone fruit tests for the Deciduous Plant Improvement Association (DPA) scheme.
Do you offer vineyard scouting, block indexing or virus reporting?
Yes. Our grapevine leafroll control programme includes plant inspection, block scouting, disease mapping and virus reporting. Red cultivars are scouted visually; white cultivars and planting material are indexed by ELISA. Reports include disease maps, infected-vine positions and infection statistics.