Mosaic Virus
Pathogen: TMV, CMV, ZYMV · Affects Tomato, Pepper, Tobacco, Cucurbits
Mosaic viruses are the one disease group on this list you cannot spray your way out of — there is no antiviral for plants. Once a plant is infected it stays infected for life, so the entire strategy shifts from treatment to preventing the aphids, whiteflies and contaminated tools that carry the virus from plant to plant.
Symptoms
- Mottled light-and-dark green mosaic pattern on leaves
- Stunted, distorted new growth
- Reduced fruit set with mottled skin
Causes
- Aphid and whitefly vectors
- Mechanical spread on hands and tools
- Infected seed and transplants
Treatment
- No cure — rogue and destroy infected plants immediately
- Control aphid and whitefly populations with insecticidal soap or neem
Prevention
- Plant virus-resistant cultivars
- Sanitize hands and tools; do not use tobacco products near plants
- Use reflective mulch to deter aphids
Frequently asked questions
Can a plant recover from mosaic virus?
No — plant viruses have no cure and the infection is permanent. Infected plants should be removed to stop the virus from spreading to healthy ones nearby.
How does mosaic virus spread between plants?
Mainly through aphids and whiteflies feeding on infected plants and then healthy ones, as well as mechanically on hands, tools and infected seed.
Insect Vector Control
Reduces aphid and whitefly populations that transmit plant viruses.
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