Testing plants for cyanide and nitrate

Producers can have plants tested for levels of cyanide and/or nitrate by a commercial agricultural laboratory. The Biosecurity Sciences Laboratory also conducts testing as part of a veterinary investigation of a significant disease incident, or by prior arrangement.

If you suspect cyanide or nitrate poisoning contact your veterinarian or Biosecurity Queensland for advice on laboratory diagnosis.

Sending plant samples for testing

Plant samples should be collected and packaged appropriately so they reach the laboratory as quickly as possible and without damage.

For fresh plant samples, dig up and wrap the root ball in wet newspaper.

Paper wrapping should be used to package either fresh plant or hay samples—do not submit in plastic bags as this can lead to falsely low results.