Infection from Potato Virus Y (PVY) is being reported in tobacco fields. The first PVY infected tobacco plants were observed in late June. Since then, the virus has been found in several more tobacco fields. PVY can cause considerable damage to infected plants, especially the necrotic strain which can cause plants to die.
Tobacco plant showing symptoms of the necrotic strain of Potato Virus Y (PVY).
When an aphid feeds on a plant infected with PVY, particles of the virus attach to the aphid’s mouthparts and when the aphid moves to a healthy plant, the virus is transmitted soon after feeding starts. The virus can infect solanaceous crops such as tobacco, potato, tomato and peppers. Certain weeds, such as nightshade, ground cherry and lamb’s quarters, can be infected as well. Aphids can spread the virus between these various crops and weeds.
Once PVY is in a field of tobacco, further spread can occur via aphid feeding. Control of aphids in the field may help to reduce the spread of the virus within the field or to other tobacco fields, however, it will not control the virus from being introduced into the field from other sources.
For more detailed information about PVY and aphids, please refer to the technical bulletins posted in the Plant Protection area of this website.
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Mailing Address: CTRF, P.O. Box 322, Tillsonburg, ON N4G 4H5
Telephone: 519-842-8997
Web Address: http://ctrf1.com