Maize dwarf mosaic virus
Maize dwarf mosaic is transmitted by several different species of aphids. Symptoms include narrow, light
green to yellow streaks along the veins of leaves, leaf sheaths, and husks. As infected plants continue
to grow and the temperature rises, the symptoms may disappear while the young leaves become more yellow.
Plants may be stunted and have numerous tillers and poor seed set.
SolutionsIt is not practical to try to control maize dwarf mosaic virus by using insecticides to control aphids.
If you have experienced this disease in the past, aluminum
foil used as a soil mulch may reduce or delay
infections because it helps repel insects from plants. Delaying planting until aphid flights are over
may also help reduce infection. Pull up plants showing symptoms; they will be unproductive and may allow
disease to spread to nearby healthy plants. Keep broadleaf weeds down, because they may serve as a reservoir
of viruses and facilitate spread. Plant resistant varieties if available. |
Symptoms
of mosaic virus on corn leaves |
