MANAGING TOMATO SPOTTED WILT VIRUS IN SOUTHEAST VIRGINIA
Agronomy & Pest Management
Janet Spencer
Extension Agent, Agriculture & Natural Resources
Virginia Cooperative Extension
Isle of Wight
Abstract
Fresh market tomatoes and bell peppers are two economically important crops in Southeast Virginia. However, diseases commonly associated with these crops, especially tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), can significantly reduce yields and ultimately profits. In 2007, a two year study was initiated in Southeast Virginia to improve management of TSWV in tomatoes and peppers. Fourteen varieties of tomato and seven varieties of pepper were evaluated across three locations within SE Virginia. Varieties were evaluated weekly to determine TSWV development and to ascertain horticultural qualities. Results indicate TSWV occurrence is highly variable from year to year depending on thrips populations within a certain location. Tomato spotted wilt virus occurrence in 2008 was much higher than its occurrence in 2009. Likewise, varietal qualities are highly dependent on environmental factors. Conditions in 2008 were extremely hot and dry, while conditions in 2009 were wetter and cooler. Varieties that performed well in 2008 did not perform well in 2009, with the exception of ‘Crista’; a round tomato resistant to TSWV. ‘Crista’ performed very well in both years of the study. ‘Boris’, a specialty pepper, and Heritage, a bell pepper, each performed well in the pepper study.
Authors: Spencer, J. L., Rideout, S.L.
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Spencer, J. L. Commercial Vegetables, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia, 23437
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Rideout, S.L. Extension Specialist, Eastern Shore AREC, Virginia, 23420