CucCAP scientist Bill Wintermantel discusses the status of new virus diseases in the article, Tracking viral diseases in cucurbit crops on page 20 of the April edition of Specialty Crop Grower.
cucurbit virus
South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline | Dec. 3, 2023
Widespread Cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus (CYSDV), squash vein yellowing virus (SqVYV), and cucurbit leaf crumple virus (CuLCrV) infestations have been reported on watermelon in multiple locations. Crumple virus and yellow stunt virus are now common in mature watermelon fields with low levels of vine decline.
Gummy stem blight is reaching moderate to high levels in watermelon fields.
Low levels of Anthracnose on watermelons.
Powdery mildew and Downy mildew was reported in cucumber and squash. Downy mildew is expected to increase in melons due to the recent rain.
South Carolina Grower Update | 9/21/2023
South Carolina Extension Update – 9/20/2023
In the South Carolina Midlands, Fall squash has produced exceptionally well, with the biggest issue being mosaic virus.
Early Career Scientist Spotlight | Bazgha Zia
Bazgha Zia is a postdoctoral researcher at the United States Vegetable Laboratory in Charleston, S.C. Bazgha’s research includes the development of virus resistant genetic material in cucurbits and identification of novel virus strains.
Disease Factsheets for Emerging Viruses
The Emerging Viruses in Cucurbits Working Group includes members from the CucCAP team. The EVCWG website provides resources for Cucurbit growers including virus factsheets. Visit the CucCAP disease management pages to find links to disease factsheets for these viruses and other Cucurbit diseases.
Specialty Crop News | April 2022
The April issue of Specialty Crop Industry Magazine highlights watermelon production. It looks at the current trends and the future of anthracnose disease while also spotlighting new viruses to watch for in watermelons and other cucurbit crops.
Insecticide Rotation & Management of Whiteflies
Insecticide rotation is key in long-term management of whiteflies. Whiteflies can transmit cucurbit leaf crumple virus and cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus.
