Watermelon Mosaic

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

image of watermelon mosaic fruit damage

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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.


The information given herein is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by the Texas AgriLife Extension Service is implied.

Educational programs of the Texas AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, or national origin.

Publication Revised July 2009

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