Potyvirus helitessellati
Virus
Initially, light and dark green patches appear on leaves (mosaic pattern). Small bright yellow spots develop on leaf surfaces. Symptoms first show on younger leaves at top of plant. Advanced signs will appear after 3+ weeks. Plants remain shorter than healthy sunflowers. Sunflower heads are smaller and poorly developed. Fewer seeds form, and they may be smaller. In severe cases, leaves turn brown and fall off.
There is no biological treatment of this viral disease. Combine biological controls focusing on aphids with good farming practices for long-term virus prevention.
No chemicals can cure infected plants. Control focuses on preventing infection by controlling aphids. Apply insecticides when aphids first appear, before virus spreads. Spray both top and bottom of leaves where aphids hide. Don't spray on windy days or before rain. Rotate insecticide types to prevent resistance. Always wear protective clothing and follow label directions.
Sunflower Mosaic Virus is caused by Potyvirus helitessellati and is affecting all sunflower varieties worldwide, including wild varieties. Infected seeds can spread virus to new plantings. Green peach aphids carry virus from infected to healthy plants. The virus spreads quickly during warm weather when aphids are most active. The virus can also be spread throughout the field by workers which can carry the virus on hands, clothing or contaminated farm tools and equipment.