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Tobacco Mosaic Virus

virus

Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV)

Extremely stable and contagious virus. Spread by touch. Can persist on surfaces, tools, and in cigarettes for years.

Identification

Light and dark green mosaic on leaves. Leaf curling and distortion. Stunted plants. Similar to tomato mosaic but broader host range.

Damage & Symptoms

Mottled leaves, stunting, reduced yield. Fruit may show uneven ripening or brown necrotic areas.

Organic Control

No cure. Remove and destroy infected plants. Sterilize tools with 10% bleach or TSP solution.

Chemical Control

No effective treatment.

Prevention

Wash hands before gardening (especially smokers). Resistant varieties. Disinfect tools. Do not grow susceptible crops in infected soil.

Data confidence: medium | Source: curated_ipm