Members: Get Free Canola Diagnostic Services
Canola Diagnostic Services provide free diagnostic testing to help Manitoba canola growers identify and manage crop diseases. Using lab-based molecular analysis and expert interpretation, we deliver clear, actionable results to support your in-field decision-making and boost productivity.
Tests include blackleg, verticillium stripe and clubroot. Through this service members receive one free test type per field.
Submit a Field Sample
Fill out the form below to submit your field sample request to the Canola Diagnostic Services. Once received and approved, you will receive a confirmation email with your Sample ID and further instructions.
Sampling Collection and Delivery
To ensure accurate and reliable disease diagnostics, please follow the specific sampling guidelines in the sampling instructions booklet for each target disease. Ensure each sample is clearly labelled with your Sample ID, name and phone number.
Samples can be shipped or dropped off at:
GeneBright BioSolutions Lab
Room 248, Richardson Centre for Food Technology and Research (RCFTR)
University of Manitoba
196 Innovation Drive, Smart Park, R3T 2N2
Phone: 431-556-1356
Once completed, test results will be sent directly to the farmer listed as the sample owner. If you are submitting on behalf of a farmer, we encourage you to ensure their contact details are accurate and that they are expecting results from Canola Diagnostic Services.
If you have any questions or require assistance please contact diagnostics@canolagrowers.com.
About Tests
Tests include blackleg, verticillium stripe and clubroot. You can also select a sample to be tested for both blackleg and verticillium stripe.
- Blackleg detection and race ID: This test uses PCR to confirm the presence of Leptosphaeria maculans (Blackleg) in canola stubble and identifies the pathogen race based on avirulence gene markers.
- Verticillium stripe detection and quantification: This test uses PCR and qPCR to detect Verticillium longisporum in canola stubble and measures pathogen load to help estimate disease severity and field-level risk.
- Clubroot quantification: This test uses qPCR to quantify Plasmodiophora brassicae (Clubroot) spore levels in soil, helping assess infection risk in canola fields.
For more details about lab methodology click here.
If you have any questions, please contact diagnostics@canolagrowers.com.
This service is fully funded for MCGA members as part of our commitment to driving success for Manitoba canola farmers. Farmer funded and farmer focused — Canola Diagnostic Services is one of the many ways we take bold action to support your success through research, outreach, and practical on-farm tools.
