ISHS Acta Horticulturae 776: XI International Asparagus Symposium
VIRAL DISEASES AND THEIR IMPACT ON ASPARAGUS PERFORMANCE AND YIELD |
| Authors: | M. Knaflewski, Z. Fiedorow, A. Pawlowski |
| Keywords: | Asparagus officinalis, virus, incidence, harmful effects, transmission ways, prevention |
| DOI: | 10.17660/ActaHortic.2008.776.23 |
| Abstract:
The objective of this literature study is to present a survey on the occurrence of viruses in asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) and their impact on asparagus production. The importance of viral diseases, which are very common in asparagus plantings world-wide, is often underestimated, as most viruses are latent, not showing visible symptoms. It should be noted that, although infection by viruses does not produce any visible symptoms on asparagus plants, viral infections can have detrimental effects on plant vigour, yield and spear quality. Undoubtedly one of the most severe biotic factors of asparagus decline is a complex frequently comprising both viruses and fungi. The contribution of viruses to the problem of asparagus decline will be discussed. The survey includes the following topics: (i) incidence of viruses in asparagus plantings in different countries of the world, (ii) mechanisms of their transmission, (iii) deleterious effects of virus infection and (iv) prevention of infection by viral diseases. In addition, results of an extensive research project on viruses in asparagus, carried out at the University of Agriculture in Poznan, will be presented. It was found that viruses can be spread by asparagus root grafting. Asparagus virus 2 (AV-2) can be transmitted by spores of asparagus rust (Puccinia asparagi). All spears from an infected plant showed presence of AV-2. Spears and young stems just after harvest are better for testing than the older ones because of higher concentration of viruses. A simple knife wiping can eradicate viruses completely. | |
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