What does tomato leaf curl virus look like?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.The tomato leaf curl virus exhibits recognizable symptoms that facilitate early diagnosis of infections. Leaf curling, which is characterized by upward curling of new leaves in conjunction with yellow mosaic patterns between veins, is a distinguishing symptom. Infested plants become very stunted in stature, making them resemble dwarfed (stunted) varieties. Flowers are dropped (shed) without fruit set, making harvests impossible. Leaves are brittle, and they feel crispy to the touch.
Leaf Changes
- Curling pattern: Upward or downward twisting on newest growth
- Color distortion: Yellow mosaic between veins while veins stay green
- Texture shift: Brittle feel that crumbles when folded
Growth Impacts
- Severe stunting: Plants stop growing at 12-18 inches tall
- Node compression: Shortened distances between leaf branches
- Dwarf appearance: Mature plants resemble young seedlings
Reproductive Failure
- Flower abortion: Blooms drop before pollination completes
- Fruit absence: No tomatoes develop on infected branches
- Pollen sterility: Remaining flowers produce infertile pollen
Symptoms develop quickly, within two weeks. Early infection results in a slight upward curling of the apex of the top leaves. By week two, yellow mosaic patterns develop between the veins. By week three, plants completely stop growing. The first drop of flowers occurs shortly thereafter. I have recorded this timeline over multiple growing seasons.
Confirm the diagnosis by identifying at least two symptoms, such as curled leaves and stunted growth. Assess multiple plants. Viral infections tend to be patchy or scattered throughout the field, while other problems show uniformity. If symptoms appear incongruent or spread too rapidly, send samples to the extension services for evaluation. If PCR testing can be performed, you will receive the most accurate diagnosis.
Weekly document symptom progression through photos. The most noticeable changes will be evident in the plants with new growth. You can also compare plants from different locations in the garden, as this will help identify viruses rather than environmental or cultural issues. I have kept a photo record of the irreversible damage caused by this virus.
Read the full article: Tomato Leaf Curl Virus: Complete Guide
