| Viral infections can reduce plant vigor by disrupting
cellular functioning, but do not commonly kill
plants. Tobacco mosaic is one of the most highly
persistent tomato diseases because it can remain
viable without a host for many years and it is able to
withstand high heat. The virus is spread primarily by
mechanical methods. Gardeners can contaminate
their hands when they touch tobacco products or
infected plants and weeds and spread the virus to
healthy plants.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Tobacco mosaic virus is not as distinct as other
viruses, but yellow-green mottling on leaves is the
most characteristic symptom of the disease. Infected
plants have stunted growth, and flowers and leaflets
may be curled, distorted, and smaller than normal in
size. Open blooms may have brown streaks through
them. Yellow, chlorotic spotting is characteristic of
pepper plants that are infected.
Life Cycle
Tobacco mosaic virus survives on infected seeds,
plant debris, and even clothing for months or years.
The virus enters plants through wounds sustained in
transplanting or pruning. It spreads rapidly once it is
in the host. The virus can remain viable for years on
dried plant debris and is extremely tolerant of very
high temperatures. Tobacco products are the most
common source of inoculum; smokers can infect
plants by handling them. The virus is not spread
by aphids.
Integrated Pest Management Strategies
1. Remove and destroy infected plants. Pull plants
with mosaic symptoms immediately. Remove the
debris from the garden area and bury them
if possible.
2. Keep your garden weed-free. Some weed may be
harboring the virus. These represent sources
of inoculum.
3. Always wash your hands thoroughly and disinfect
tools. Before handling plants, wash with soap and
water, especially if you're a smoker.
4. Plant resistant varieties of tomato. Suggested
varieties include: ‘Big Pick’, ‘Celebrity’,
‘President’, and ‘Park's Extra Early Hybrid’. Other
resistant varieties will be labeled TMV resistant. | 
