Cucumber Mosaic Virus

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Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) does not affect only cucumbers. It also targets: The disease is primarily spread by aphids, but it can also be spread by cucumber beetles and on gardening tools. The virus overwinters in perennial weeds. Symptoms Treatment There is no cure for CMV. Destroy diseased plants immediately. Nearby weeds should be pulled…

Cucumber Mosaic Virus

Cucumber Mosaic Virus

Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) does not affect only cucumbers. It also targets:

The disease is primarily spread by aphids, but it can also be spread by cucumber beetles and on gardening tools. The virus overwinters in perennial weeds.

Symptoms

Cucumber Mosaic Virus
  • Stunted, unusually bushy plants.
  • Thin, rough, curled leaves with mottled coloring.
  • Reduced yields.
  • Small, bumpy, misshapen fruits.

Treatment

There is no cure for CMV. Destroy diseased plants immediately. Nearby weeds should be pulled and destroyed, as well.

Prevention

Cucumber Mosaic Virus

If cucumber mosaic virus is a recurring problem in your garden, switch to disease-resistant varieties. Also try to avoid planting host species in close proximity. For instance, separate cucumbers and tomatoes with another vegetable that is not susceptible to the virus, such as corn.

To break the life cycle of CMV, destroy any weeds that it might hide in, particularly catnip, milkweed, and ground cherry. Also control aphids, cucumber beetles, and other potential insect vectors.

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Garden & Orchard Diseases

Garden & Orchard Diseases


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