[h=1]Mosaic Viruses
[/h]What are mosaic viruses? This virus infects more than 150 types of plants, including many fruits, vegetables, and flowers. It is characterized by leaves mottled with yellow, white, and light and dark green spots or streaks. Some of the most commonly infected plants include tomatoes, potatoes, squash, and cucumbers.
[h=2]How to Identify Mosaic Viruses[/h]Viral diseases are difficult to identify because symptoms vary from plant to plant and may also vary depending on the age of the plant and its growing conditions. However, the most common ways of identifying mosaic viruses are listed below.
· The leaves are mottled with yellow, white, and light and dark green spots, which appear to be elevated. This gives the leaves a blister-like appearance.
· Plants are often stunted, or they grow poorly.
· Plants may have other deformities and their leaves may be crinkled or wavy.
[h=2]How to Control Mosaic Viruses[/h]Once plants are infected, there are no controls. Remove all the infected plants and destroy them.
[h=2]Prevention[/h]· Plant resistant plants when available in your garden.
· Mosaic viruses are mostly spread by insects, especially aphids and leafhoppers. You can try covering your plants with a floating row cover or aluminum foil mulches to prevent these insects from infecting your plants.
· Control your weeds. Some types may serve as hosts for the disease.