Typically, the gold standard of tissue collection for DNA or RNA sequencing is fresh tissue, but immediate tissue processing is not always feasible, especially when sampling non-model plants under field conditions. The Smithsonian Institution recommends that botanical genetic samples be preserved in silica gel for DNA analysis and in liquid nitrogen for RNA analysis. In both cases storing at -80 °C is recommended for long term storage. Liquid nitrogen and their transportation Dewars can be difficult to obtain in remote locations and even harder to transport and use in the field, and -80 °C storage will not be available in all circumstances. Areas with high plant diversity are often remote or extreme locations where liquid nitrogen may not be available. Alternate methods for RNA preservation, such as RNAlater(R) and freeze-drying have been proposed to combat such logistical issues. However, both alternate methods eventually require some level of cold storage. Given the fragility of non-prepared RNA under room temperature conditions, the investigation of ancient RNA may seem futile, yet dozens of examples exist of ancient RNA recovery. Especially promising are studies investigating the germination of ancient seeds – the germination process necessitates functional RNA . Recent sampling has also recovered RNA viruses in herbarium-dried plant tissues up to 90 years between initial collection and sequencing. Thus far, one study has harnessed the potential of silica-dried RNA samples for phylotranscriptomics, and many others are sure to come. There is great potential for expanding such techniques due to the ample herbarium resources available. A thorough investigation of sampling and sequencing techniques will guide the field towards expanded sampling of underserved and remote areas for the benefit of marginalized communities and undersampled plant communities.