Lettuce: Beet western yellows virus

Biology

Beet Western Yellows is a virus which affects many garden plants and weed species. The virus is transmitted by aphids, including the green peach aphid. Older leaves are affected first. Yellowing begins at the margin and progresses inward, with the veins typically remaining green. The disease results in reduced, abnormal growth of the plants. Symptoms tend to be worse when unfavorable conditions such as poor nutrition or poor root development are also present.

Management Options

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• Plant tolerant varieties such as ‘Salinas’.
• Controlling weeds in and around the garden may help reduce the overwintering virus reservoir.
• Aphid control is ineffective in preventing disease, as the virus is easily spread by only a few aphids.

Chemical Management

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

• None recommended.