Rose Mosaic Virus

by Nanette Londeree, Master Rosarian

SYMPTOMS

  • Wide variety of different chlorotic line patterns including yellow zigzags, bands or ringspots on leaves
  • Green or brown banding of veins (a dark green or brown color that parallels the veins) on leaves
  • Vein clearing on leaves
  • Leaf blades that are puckered and somewhat distorted around the chlorotic areas
  • Canes that have shorter than normal internodes, resulting in stunting or dwarfing of the plant
  • Possible reduced flower production, flower quality or overall plant vigor

CAUSE

  • A variety of different viruses; most commonly rose mosaic virus (RMV)

OPTIMAL CONDITIONS

Most pronounced in spring; may disappear in summer and reappear as temperatures cool in fall

TREATMENT

Prevention:

Purchase roses that are grown on virus-free rootstock

Elimination:

Tolerate symptoms if they have not impacted overall plant health
Destroy infected plants

GOOD GUY / BAD GUY?

Mostly a nuisance if you don’t like the unique markings on the leaves
May be a bad guy if overall plant health deteriorates

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