Curly top of bean is caused by Beet Curly Top Virus, a virus transmitted by beet leafhoppers. Many crops are affected, including tomato, bean, squash, cucumber, and pepper. Typical symptoms of the disease include puckering and downward curling of leaves, followed by a general yellowing of the plant. Young plants may be killed. Older plants are yellowed and dwarfed, with stunted pods. Leaves are thicker than normal and brittle in texture. The virus is also found in annual flowers and weeds. Beet Curly Top is not a problem in western Washington.

Management Options

Non-Chemical Management

Plant resistant varieties. Resistant snap bean cultivars are 'Canyon', 'Yakima', 'Idaho Bountiful', 'Idachief', 'Idelite', and 'Wondergreen'. Resistant red kidneys include "Kanaikin' and 'Kardinal Light'.
Pull out and destroy infected plants.
Control of beet leafhoppers is ineffective for preventing Beet Curly Top Virus infection.

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides

None recommended

Images

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Caption: Curly top virus symptoms on bean Photo by: G.Q. Pelter
Caption: Severe curly top virus symptoms on bean Photo by: G.Q. Pelter
Caption: Curly top virus symptoms on bean Photo by: P.N. Miklas

WSU Extension

Hortsense