Apple mosaic virus

Disease

Apple mosaic virus

Apple mosaic virus (ApMV)

Distribution: Common to all fruit-growing regions in eastern North America.

Photos

Young leaves develop pale to bright cream spots, blotches, banding or patterns.

Young leaves develop pale to bright cream spots, blotches, banding or patterns. Wayne Wilcox, Cornell Univ.
A

Young leaves develop pale to bright cream-colored spots, blotches, bandings or patterns as they expand in the spring (A). These turn brown and become necrotic as they age and premature defoliation may occur when infection is severe. Symptom expression is highly variable among varieties.

  • Crops Affected: apples

    Management

    The virus is exclusively mechanically transmitted; i.e., there are no known insect vectors. Therefore, ApMV can be avoided by planting trees that are certified virus-free. Transmission can occur in the orchard through root grafts; roguing infected trees will limit the spread. Almost all varieties are susceptible to the virus, but some express symptoms more readily than others. Golden Delicious, Granny Smith and Jonathan are very susceptible; McIntosh is moderately susceptible. Infected trees may still produce a good crop.

About

Resources

Events

Michigan State University
  • Spartans Will.
  • © Michigan State University

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential.

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).