Threads of the fungus spread through the soil, and water or cultivation can distribute the sclerotial bodies. Under favorable conditions, these sclerotia put out fungus threads and infect the plant. The fungus lives a long time in the soil and is most active in sandy, poorly drained fields. Control includes crop rotation, deep plowing, and using PCNB in transplant water. Mosaic The virus that causes mosaic produces a distinct mottling and distortion of the leaves.
Affected plants produce very few, poor quality pods.
Do not use tobacco when handling plants. Control weeds and insects around fields. Most varieties of bell pepper are resistant or tolerant to this disease. Early infection causes stunted plants with mottled and distorted foliage. Frequently, ring spots appear on older leaves.