MSU Extension Integrated Pest Management

Plum pox virus

Disease

Plum pox virus

Plum Pox Virus (PPV-D)

Distribution: The virus has a worldwide distribution. As of 2003, its occurrence in North America has been limited to Adams and surrounding counties in southern PA, certain regions along the Niagara Peninsula in Ontario, Canada, as well as limited distribution in NS.

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There is considerable variation in symptoms, depending on which species of stone fruit is affected, variety, age, and general nutritional status of the tree. On leaves, symptoms may include vein yellowing, banding, or the formation of light green to yellow rings (A). Peach and apricot fruit may develop light yellow rings on their skin or pits, become misshapen, or develop necrotic lesions (B, C, D). Plums are the most severely infected stone fruit. Fruit develop distinct dark rings or spots on their skin, the flesh shows a red discoloration, and fruit may drop prematurely (E). Affected fruit tend to be tasteless due to lowered sugar content, and the flesh may be dry.

• Crops Affected: peaches, plums

  Management

  PPV was accidentally introduced into North America in the 1990's. The disease is currently regulated by federally imposed quarantines in both the US and Canada. The quarantines mandate the certification of nursery stock, removal and destruction of infected trees or orchard blocks, and strict management of aphid vectors.