Other Virus Diseases

Cucumber mosaic symptoms are similar to those of celery mosaic but in addition cause areas of sunken brown spots on the stalk. Symptoms of tomato spotted wilt appear on older leaves as yellow spots that turn brown. Large sections of stalks turn brown and eventually die; plants may be severely stunted. Tomato spotted wilt disease is most commonly found in the coastal celery-growing areas. Precise identification of the various celery viruses requires laboratory or greenhouse tests.

These virus diseases occur sporadically and usually do not cause significant economic loss in California celery. Both viruses have extensive host ranges and are found in many agronomic, ornamental, and weed plants. Cucumber mosaic virus is vectored by aphids and Tomato spotted wilt virus is vectored by thrips.

Avoid planting celery in areas having a history of virus problems. Young celery should not be planted near fields having crops infected with virus. Weed management should be practiced.

Cultural controls are acceptable for use on organically grown produce.

There are no chemical controls for plant viruses. Insecticides will have little effect on vector transmission of the pathogens and are therefore not recommended.