Elucidating the Spread and Transmissibility of Blueberry Mosaic Virus, a New Disease of Blueberry in the Southeastern U.S.

There are over 24,000 acres of blueberry in the southeastern U.S. (2). Blueberry mosaic virus, a newly emerging virus in blueberry across the northeastern U.S., is now threatening southern blueberry. After two reports of blueberry mosaic virus in Kentucky in 2012, local blueberry growers are concerned by this emerging pathogen. Limited research indicates that the virus is transmitted by cuttings, and no other methods of transmission have been identified. Reports of blueberry mosaic virus in Kentucky were the furthest south that the virus has been observed, and it is unknown whether other cases exist. Because the virus can remain latent for several years, spread through propagation materials appears to be a critical dilemma, especially as small growers and organic producers utilize current plantings for propagation materials. The spread of blueberry mosaic virus through cuttings threatens that sustainability. The objective of this project is to promote sustainable management of blueberry mosaic virus in KY by 1) understanding virus spread (or lack of) within established fields, and 2) increasing grower awareness of transmissibility risk in infected propagation materials. Specific aims of this project are to 1) evaluate the potential spread of blueberry mosaic virus in Kentucky under field conditions and 2) demonstrate transmissibility by cuttings.