Effect of an Aphid-Transmitted Yellowing Virus on Yield and Quality of Staked Tomatoes. T. A. Zitter, Associate Plant Pathologist, Agricultural Research and Education Center, University of Florida, Belle Glade 33430. P. H. Everett, Soil Chemist, Agricultural Research Center, University of Florida, Immokalee 33934. Plant Dis. 66:456-458. Accepted for publication 21 July 1981. Copyright 1982 American Phytopathological Society. DOI: 10.1094/PD-66-456.

A newly recognized virus disease of tomato in Florida, referred to here as tomato yellows, significantly reduced yield and quality of staked fresh-market tomatoes. Early infections (2–3 wk after transplanting) caused the greatest plant stunting (8–15%) and reduction in yields (60–83%), but infections occurring as late as 5 wk before harvest resulted in a 25% yield reduction. Fruit quality was also adversely affected, resulting in misshapen and puffy fruit with thin walls. Weekly applications of mineral oil (JMS Stylet-Oil) did not affect plant growth or resultant yields. Infection with this virus may account in part for reported yield reductions for the spring tomato crop grown in several southwestern counties.

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