Potato leafroll virus is a virus that affects potatoes and other nightshades.
Also known as:
PLRV (Potato leafroll virus).
Potato leafroll is a virus belonging to the Polerovirus, genus of the Luteoviridae family. This virus attacks potatoes and other nightshades (Solanaceae). The leaf curls inward, yellows and turns purple-brown. Plants become stunted and produce small potatoes. The potatoes look healthy and have a normal shape, but after a while brown rotten spots may appear in the flesh.
The disease is transmitted by insects, the most important of which is the green peach aphid (Myzus persicae).
Where to find
- Potato
- Thorn apple
Control
After infestation by Potato leafroll virus, it is no longer possible to stop the disease.
Prevention
Infection comes from planting infected seed potatoes and from infected insects, such as the green peach aphid. This aphid thrives in a warm, moist environment. Plant potatoes preferably in a windy place, where aphids have a harder time.
Natural enemies of the peach aphid include: birds, ladybird, earwigs, parasitoid wasps and lacewings. Provide varied plantings where these enemies of the peach aphid feel at home.
