Plum, Prune (Fresh): Virus diseases

categories: Plum, Prune (fresh) Plum, Prune (Fresh) Diseases Tree Fruits

revision date: 2022-12-05 12:00

Virus infection causing poor growth on branches.
Virus infection causing poor growth on branches
Photo by: R.S. Byther

Biology

Virus diseases in prunes and plums cause many variable symptoms depending on the virus strain and the cultivar affected. For instance, tomato ringspot virus can cause failure of the graft union, ultimately killing trees. Trees infected with a virus may also show various symptoms of decline, collapse, or breakage, which may be confused with root rots or other disease problems. Virus disease transmission is specific for each virus. Insects, nematodes, and grafting are possible modes of transmission.

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 and graft only with certified, virus-free stock.
  • Remove and destroy any trees known to be infected with viruses.
  • The rootstock Marianna 2624 is reported to be resistant to the tomato ringspot virus, but it produces many suckers and has a shallow root system.

Chemical Management

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

  • None recommended.

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