Disease Directory

    Soilborne Wheat Mosaic Virus

    Soilborne wheat mosaic virus (SBWMV), Furovirus

    Virus
    Leaves
    Whole Plant

    Overview

    A viral disease of wheat and other cereals transmitted by the soil-borne protist Polymyxa graminis. Causes mosaic patterns and stunting, particularly in cool, wet conditions.

    Symptoms

    Green-yellow mosaic patterns on leaves. Stunted growth. Rosetting. Symptoms most severe in cool, wet conditions and may disappear as temperatures rise. Reduced tillering and yield.

    Environmental Conditions

    Cool

    Prevention

    Plant resistant varieties. Improve drainage. Delay planting to avoid cool, wet conditions during early growth. Avoid fields with history of the disease.

    Management

    No direct treatment. Plant resistant varieties. Improve drainage. Adjust planting dates. Crop rotation has limited effect as the vector persists in soil.