crowrita1 said:
Take some good notes, Tom ! we'll be relying on you for some info !
Well here's my notes from yesterdays meeting, hope they are helpful to you.
Notes from presentation on Iris Mosaic Virus, Presentation by Shanon Hankin
-There are many types of virus that affect iris, the biggest concern about the Mosaic iris is that it can spread to food crops like tomatoes, potatoes, onion, cucumbers, squash, pumpkins, grapes, etc.
-The virus doesn't always kill the plant, but often weakens it so that it doesn't bloom, or fruit.
-Spreads to other plants via insects such as aphids, nematodes. It can also be spread by humans through unclean tools like pruning tools or knives used to cut apart rhizomes.
-The Potyvirus is the one that most affects irises.
-Siberian irises seem to be immune
-Commercial Iris gardens are required to be inspected in most states, and infected irises are required to be destroyed, heat can kill the virus, but would also kill the plant. Burning is the best way to dispose of infected plants.
-Bulbus irises are more susceptible to the virus.
- Testing can be done to determine the presence of the virus in your plants. You can send samples of plants that you suspect have the virus to testing labs, such as the University of Wisconsin Diagnostic lab. For testing. OR you can do an at home test with ImmunoStrip for Potyvirus you can purchase from
http://www.agdia.com/index.cfm
-Some irises may have foliage that looks like it has the virus, but is caused from other reasons, so it's best to test before you destroy.
Methods to help control
-Recommended that one buys from reputable vendors, NOT BOX STORES.
-Weed control helps reduce insect populations
-Sanitation of garden tools, 1:10 bleach solution to clean between each cut.
-aphid/nematode control (insecticidal soap/Neem oil are safe to use). I know that some of you use the beneficial nematodes to control Iris borers, but maybe not such a good idea.
-Burn any affected plants
Some pictures from the net to help you see what it looks like
In bearded irises
In squash
In onions
