Tobacco mosaic virus on greenhouse crops
Editor’s note: This article is from the archives of the MSU Crop Advisory Team Alerts. Check the label of any pesticide referenced to ensure your use is included.
Growers
are reminded to check incoming cuttings for symptoms of tobacco mosaic
virus on calibrachoa and other members of the cutting propagated
petunia family. Look for mosaic/mottle patterns and stunting. Leaf
deformation can also be noted early on.
Since
tomato mosaic virus is spread by the touch of a hand or carryover on
sap on a cutting knife, sanitation is key. Are you disinfecting your
tools for taking cuttings and washing your hands in warm soapy water?
For more details on dealing with this virus, read the article Virus Diseases of Greenhouse Floral Crops from Ohio State University. It has some great tips on how to avoid problems.