Plant viruses
Disease Viruses that cause mottled, distorted leaves and stunted plants, often spread by aphids.
What to look for
Yellow and green mottled or mosaic patterns on leaves, puckering, stunting and poor cropping. Common on cucumbers, courgettes, raspberries and strawberries.
When: Symptoms appear from late spring to autumn.
How to prevent it
- Control aphids, which spread most viruses.
- Buy certified virus-free plants, particularly raspberries and strawberries.
- Clean knives and secateurs between plants.
- Remove weeds that harbour viruses.
How to deal with it
- There is no cure, so dig up and bin infected plants. Do not compost them.
- Do not save seed or take cuttings from infected plants.
Crops it affects
If you choose to use any treatment, use only products approved for UK home gardens, follow the label and avoid spraying open flowers. See all pests and diseases.