Infected plants are stunted with size reduction more noticeable in younger plants. Foliar symptoms included puckering and yellow mottling and were more distinct on the younger leaves. Fruit were lumpy, mottled and slightly reduced in size. Brown streaks were observed on older fruit. This virus is a member of the tobacco mosaic virus family, is readily transmitted mechanically, and is also seedborne.
Avoidance is the best control.
Only tested seed free of pepper mild mottle virus should be planted. Removal of infected plants may result in additional spread of the disease if proper sanitation procedures are not followed before handling healthy plants. This virus was previously reported in bell pepper in southwest Florida in January 2000. Crops in fields that have been harvested or where planting have been destroyed by freezing weather should be cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent the carry over of insect populations and disease innoculum. Safety to mixers, loaders, and applicators is weighed heavily to minimize exposure risks.