Plant tissue homogenization using a mortar or mechanical equipment has been the preferred method for obtaining high yields of total RNA; this method, however, is both time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, homogenization may generate excessive endogenous RNases, polyphenolics, and other substances that reduce the quality and quantity of RNA. In this study, we describe the microwave irradiation-assisted RNA extraction (MIRE) technique which, without tissue disruption and homogenization, allows for the cost-effective and rapid generation of intact RNA from apple cane shavings and the reliable detection of apple virus by RT-PCR.