Potato Leafroll Virus (Leaf Roll)
Potato leafroll virus (PLRV)
1 host plant · Viral
Last updated
This profile contains verified disease data from extension databases. Regional field notes and expert review are in progress.
Potato Leafroll Virus (Leaf Roll) can show up on landscape plants, producing visible damage that ranges from leaf spots and discoloration to branch dieback depending on severity. Early detection gives you the best management options.
Start with sanitation: remove and dispose of affected material as you find it. Thin dense growth to improve air circulation, and redirect irrigation away from foliage. If the condition persists despite cultural adjustments, your local Extension office can help identify the pathogen and recommend targeted treatments.
Quick Reference
Management
Potato plants are vulnerable to aphid-transmitted PLRV throughout the growing season, with highest risk during peak aphid flight periods (late spring and late summer in the Pacific Northwest). Primary infection from contaminated seed potatoes occurs at planting. Young plants from infected seed are vulnerable to secondary infection from viruliferous aphids. Vulnerability increases as aphid populations rise in mid to late summer.
Primary infection (from infected seed potatoes) shows symptoms in youngest leaves as chlorosis, leaf margin necrosis turning brown-purple, and inward leaf curling. Secondary infection (from aphid vectors during the growing season) produces more severe symptoms: pronounced leaf rolling, chlorosis, stunting, and vascular tissue necrosis. Tuber symptoms include small brown spots scattered throughout the vascular tissue (net necrosis). Symptoms may not be visible at harvest but develop in storage.
Cultural Controls
- Use certified, PLRV-tested seed potatoes from reliable sources. Scout potato fields regularly for aphids and early PLRV symptoms. Remove and destroy infected plants immediately to reduce secondary spread. Control solanaceous weeds and volunteer potatoes that serve as virus reservoirs. Manage crop residue and remove cull piles far from new plantings. Use row covers on young plants to exclude aphids during early season. Control aphids to reduce PLRV transmission. Delay plantings to avoid early aphid flights when possible. Rotate away from susceptible crops. Source: Wikipedia; PNW Plant Disease Management Handbook