Symptoms
Mottled light and dark green leaf patterns. Leaf curling and distortion. Stunted growth. Reduced fruit quality and yield. Spread by aphids and mechanical contact.
Prevention
Use virus-free seed. Control aphid vectors. Wash hands and sterilize tools. Remove infected plants immediately. Plant resistant varieties.
Treatment
Organic
No cure for viral infections. Remove and destroy infected plants. Control insect vectors with neem oil. Use reflective mulch to repel aphids.
Chemical (last resort)
No chemical treatment for viruses. Focus on vector control. Apply imidacloprid for aphid management to reduce spread.
Affects 1 crop
Sources
MARDI Virology Unit; DOA Quarantine Service