Damage Symptoms

Young leaves usually turn bronze and later develop numerous small, dark spots. Growing tips may die back, and stems of terminal leaflets may be streaked. Affected plants have a one-sided growth habit or entirely stunted and have drooping leaves, suggesting a wilt. Dark shiny streaks are often seen along the stem and petioles.

Fruit usually show characteristic green, yellow and red, slightly raised bulls-eye rings, though some strains cause severe necrosis.


Conditions for Development

Infected weeds or ornamental plants are generally the source of the virus. Natural spread in the field is caused only by thrips, in a persistent manner, though only the larvae can pick up the virus. Seed transmission has been reported.


Control

Use resistant cultivars when available. Eliminate thrips and host plants. Tomato fields should be located as far away as possible from home gardens, and flower or grain fields.