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How the virus manifests itself in the crop depends on several factors: the age of the plant, the temperature in the greenhouse and how long the plant has been infected. Sometimes you only see a yellowing of the leaves, but often the plant also shows other symptoms. On the young leaves you usually see a faint pattern of dark and light green spots, the so-called mosaic pattern. Also, the fruits are often smaller, misshapen and/or puckered and you can sometimes see small, sunken spots on the fruits. Furthermore, you often see growth inhibition. 

Please note that the above symptoms may indicate pepper mild mottle virus, but could also indicate cucumber mosaic virus and tomato spotted wilt virus. These viruses cause the same damage in peppers. Our specialists can help you determine which virus you are dealing with. 

By implementing strict hygiene measures at the company, you limit the risk of the pepper mild mottle virus getting in. Therefore, ensure effective hygiene measures when entering the area and establish a clear hygiene protocol for visitors.  

The pepper mild mottle virus is a stable and highly contagious virus. It is mainly spread mechanically in the greenhouse via vegetable sap during cultivation, but it can also spread through the greenhouse via the substrate, soil and drain water. Insects, on the other hand, do not spread the virus. 
Once a plant is infected, this cannot be undone (the symptoms may disappear or diminish, but the following year it can return in full force). This makes the pepper mild mottle virus difficult to control during cultivation. However, there are a number of measures you can take during cultivation to minimize the spread of a (potential) infection:

• Disinfect the drain and irrigation water so that it is free from any harmful organisms.
• Make sure employees disinfect their hands before entering the greenhouse and make sure they wear clean clothes.
• Regularly dip knives and scissors into a solution of Menno Florades to remove vegetable sap. Also disinfect the hands regularly in between activities.
• If you see an infected plant, remove it immediately, along with the other plants on the same mat and some plants in the working direction of the path. There is a good chance that these plants are also affected. Put the plants in a plastic bag and disinfect hands thoroughly after disposal.

However, the most important moment to control the pepper mild mottle virus is during the crop rotation. First, make sure all plant residues are removed from the greenhouse, as the virus can survive in plant material for up to several months. Then thoroughly clean and disinfect the greenhouse as described in the disinfection protocol. This way, you kill off any pathogens present and prevent the new crop from becoming infected. 

Can't find your answer? Fill out the contact form and our specialist Jasper Verhoeven will get back to you. On weekdays, even within 24 hours.