Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus
Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), Orthotospovirus
Overview
A destructive virus with an extremely wide host range (over 1,000 plant species), transmitted by thrips. Causes distinctive ring spots, bronzing, and wilting in tomatoes and many other crops.
Symptoms
Bronze or purple discoloration of young leaves. Ring spots on fruit and leaves. Growing tips may die back. Stunted, one-sided growth. Dark streaks on stems. Fruit develops raised rings and bumps.
Environmental Conditions
Variable
Prevention
Control thrips populations (the only vector). Use reflective mulches to repel thrips. Plant resistant varieties. Remove weeds that harbor thrips and virus. Use insect screening in greenhouses.
Management
No cure. Remove infected plants immediately. Control thrips with spinosad or insecticidal soap. Remove weed hosts. Reflective mulch reduces thrips landing. Monitor with blue sticky traps.