Watermelon Mosaic

Watermelon Mosaic Virus - 2 (WMV-2)
Papaya Ringspot Virus - Type W (PRSV-W)

Symptoms:
Severe interveinal chlorosis with a characteristic green/yellow mosaic pattern. Leaves become stunted and misshapen. Fruit is bumpy and distorted; fruit may also fail to develop normal coloration.

Control:
Virus is spread by aphids and leaf miners, and after development has progressed, may be spread mechanically by picking. Plowing down residues from previous crops, field rotations, and other good sanitation practices are important controls. Early insect control is critical.

See also the Texas Plant Disease Handbook.

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