Plant viruses cause 10–40% yield loss globally. Unlike fungal diseases, viruses are incurable once established—prevention is critical.
Common Viral Diseases
| Virus | Symptoms | Vectors | Crops |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomato Mosaic (TMV) | Mottled yellow/green leaves; stunting | Contact/soil | Tomato, pepper |
| Yellow Mosaic | Bright yellow/green mosaic; leaf curl | Aphids/whiteflies | Beans, squash, cucumber |
| Leaf Curl | Cupped/rolled leaves; purpling | Whiteflies | Tomato, pepper, bean |
Prevention (Only Viable Strategy)
- Vector control: Manage aphids/whiteflies with neem, soap sprays (vectors transmit virus)
- Resistant varieties: Plant PR (pathogen-resistant) or V-resistant cultivars
- Sanitation: Wash hands before handling plants (TMV is contact-transmitted)
- Roguing: Remove infected plants immediately (prevent spread)
- Crop rotation: Don't grow same crop on same field for 2+ years
- Weed control: Remove weeds (alternate virus hosts)
If Virus Is Detected
- Remove infected plant immediately (digging, not pulling—roots stay behind)
- Disinfect hands (10% bleach or 70% alcohol)
- Monitor neighbors: Check surrounding plants weekly for 4+ weeks
- Replant resistant variety: Next season, use certified disease-free seed
Cost-Benefit (Prevention vs. Cure)
Prevention: Resistant seed (+20% cost) + aphid control sprays = 3–5k PKR Untreated viral outbreak: 30–60% yield loss = 9–18 t at 30–40 PKR/kg = 270–720k PKR ROI: 5,400–24,000% (prevention is absolutely critical)
Related Guides
Check viral disease risk for your crops using our crop calendar.
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