Disease guide

This is a new disease that is caused by a geminivirus, which was first recognized in Florida in 1989. Symptoms are more pronounced when plants are infected at an early stage. Stunting and reduced growth, upward curling and distortion of the upper and middle leaves, and chlorosis or yellowing of leaves are typical of this disease. Yield from infected plants is lower due to lack of fruit set and reduced fruit size.

Tomato Mottle Virus is transmitted by the silverleaf whitefly. The virus has a fairly narrow host range, which includes common bean. tropical soda apple and a few solanaceous weeds, but not bell pepper. The virus is easily and efficiently spread by the whitefly. and severe outbreaks of the disease can be associated with large populations of the insect. It is not easily mechanically transmitted, however. secondary spread by whiteflies is common within the crop.

Control solanaceous weeds and other alternative hosts in the vicinity of tomato fields. If possible, plant the crop during a time of the year to avoid the highest whitefly populations. Regular use of mineral oil sprays may reduce the rate of disease spread by reducing virus acquisition and infection by the whitefly vector. The use of insecticides on a regular basis may provide some control, however, whiteflies can develop resistance to pesticides if used excessively.