Potato virus Y on tomato

The virus affects potatoes, peppers, tomatoes, tobacco and many other plants. Symptoms depend on virus strain, climatic conditions and variety.

Symptom photos

Potato virus Y on tomato — Leaf — ring spots and mosaic along the veins (PVY symptoms)
Leaf — ring spots and mosaic along the veins (PVY symptoms) Photo: R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company Slide Set, Bugwood.org, licence CC BY 3.0

Symptoms

  • Necrotic spots on top parts of young plants
  • Yellowing of leaf veins
  • Leaf deformations
  • Stunted growth

What it does to the crop

  • Stunted plant growth
  • Plant die-back in severe cases
  • Significant yield loss

What encourages it

  • Transmission by aphids
  • Mechanical transmission
  • Grafting infected plants

Prevention

  • Regular plantation inspections
  • Immediate removal of infected plants
  • Disinfection of tools with sodium hypochlorite solution
  • Effective aphid control

⚠️ Before you reach for a spray

This atlas is informational and still growing — different diseases can look almost identical. Confirm the diagnosis and read the product label before applying any plant protection product. If you are unsure, ask your local extension or advisory service.

Keep the disease atlas with you in the garden

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Other tomato problems

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