- If you think you have discovered Palmer amaranth should take clear photos of the plant(s) showing the leaves, stems and flowers/seedheads, record the location, mark the plant with a flag or flagging tape (to assist with relocating if necessary) and report it through MDA’s Report A Pest website ( https://www.mda.state.mn.us/reportapest ). Upload pictures taken of the plant(s) and provide the location (latitude/longitude) and other requested information.
- The MDA may need more information to positively identify Palmer amaranth from the pictures you have submitted. Therefore, a genetic test may be required. Along with collecting the location information, taking pictures and reporting to Arrest the Pest, it is advised that you also complete the following steps:
- If a fruiting seedhead is present, collect the entire seed head by clipping it at its base and putting into a plastic bag with a piece of wet paper towel.
- Collect five leaves from the greenest growing portion of the plant. Place leaves in a plastic bag with a piece of paper towel.
- Do not put wet leaves or seedheads into the plastic bag. Let them dry to touch before bagging.
- If the MDA asks you to submit the sample, please review and follow the Protocol for Palmer Amaranth Genetic Plant Material Collections
Sample collection/testing options/testing plans
- If you think you have discovered Palmer amaranth should take clear photos of the plant(s) showing the leaves, stems and flowers/seedheads, record the location, mark the plant with a flag or flagging tape (to assist with relocating if necessary) and report it through MDA’s Report A Pest website ( https://www.mda.state.mn.us/reportapest ). Upload pictures taken of the plant(s) and provide the location (latitude/longitude) and other requested information.
- The MDA may need more information to positively identify Palmer amaranth from the pictures you have submitted. Therefore, a genetic test may be required. Along with collecting the location information, taking pictures and reporting to Arrest the Pest, it is advised that you also complete the following steps:
- If a fruiting seedhead is present, collect the entire seed head by clipping it at its base and putting into a plastic bag with a piece of wet paper towel.
- Collect five leaves from the greenest growing portion of the plant. Place leaves in a plastic bag with a piece of paper towel.
- Do not put wet leaves or seedheads into the plastic bag. Let them dry to touch before bagging.
- If the MDA asks you to submit the sample, please review and follow the Protocol for Palmer Amaranth Genetic Plant Material Collections