Two RNA extraction techniques were tested: manual solid-phase extraction utilizing a spin column kit and magnetic bead–based separation utilizing the Promega Maxwell 16 LEV plant RNA kit. The quality and quantity of amplifiable RNA was then determined by RT-qPCR using the Promega GoTaq probe 1-step RT-qPCR assay. To further enhance the accuracy and consistency of the procedures, the Gilson Pipetmax qPCR assistant was employed to automate the qPCR process.