Dr. Cristina Fulladolsa
Image Credit: CMNS
Ana Cristina Fulladolsa, affiliate faculty with the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture, is making waves at the University of Maryland’s Plant Diagnostic Laboratory known as the campus Plant Hospital. As an Assistant Research Professor in Entomology, she has led the laboratory since 2025, building on its legacy as a vital regional resource for plant diagnostics and health. Under Dr. Fulladolsa’s guidance, the Plant Hospital operates like a clinic for plants: receiving samples from nursery owners, vegetable growers, and landscapers across Maryland. Each case—whether it’s yellowing leaves, mysterious spots, or wilting stems—is examined through a combination of visual inspection, microscopic analysis, and advanced DNA sequencing techniques. “In a regular hospital, they’d ask you what you feel and examine you to find out what’s wrong. That’s exactly what we do—but plants can’t talk,so we have to gather as much information as we can through other means.” Fulladolsa explains.
Last year, around 80% of the lab’s cases came from the ornamental and horticultural industries, ranging from bedding plants and landscape trees to market crops such as tomatoes, pumpkins, and strawberries. Dr. Fulladolsa is also spearheading educational outreach and experiential learning experiences. Collaborating with UMD Extension and Departments, she’s expanding lab capacity and offering workshops, guest lectures, and internship opportunities that immerse students and green-industry professionals in real-world plant pathology scenarios.
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