Fruit affected by the Sharka virus.
Viruses are a type of very fast multiplying microorganisms that can cause many serious health problems to any living being, be it animal or plant. In fact, there are some so dangerous and complex that no cure has yet been discovered to eliminate them.
When we talk about plant viruses, unfortunately we almost always have to refer to viruses that, once they infect them, little can be done for them. So this time let's learn more about this worrisome problem.
What is virosis?
Image - Ytpo.net
Virosis are a set of diseases transmitted by pathogenic viruses. But in addition, it must be said that they are opportunistic microorganisms; that is, they will take advantage of the slightest sign of weakness to penetrate the animal or plant organism and colonize it while it "destroys" it.
Thus, we can almost certainly say that a living being that is well cared for will be very difficult to get sick, unless its parents have passed it to it while it was gestating or that another of its species has infected it.
How does it affect plants?
Symptoms of viral diseases that plants can have are the following:
- Chlorosis (mosaics, rings, yellow mottling)
- Dwarfism
- Deformations
- Production decline
- Alteration of the chemical composition of the fruits
- Fall of leaves
- In severe cases, death
Which is the treatment?
Regrettably, for now the best treatment is prevention. We have to buy healthy plants, as it will be quite unlikely that we will have to remove it in the future. In addition, it is important that we take good care of it, that is, that we water it, fertilize it, transplant it and we can whenever necessary.
In the event that we suspect that we have a virus patient, the most advisable thing would be to cut it down, burn it and disinfect the soil, for example through the solarization method.
Orange tree affected by the citrus sadness virus (Closterovirus or CTV).
Image - Agenciasinc.es
I hope it has been useful to you 🙂.