Mosaic (virus):
Several viruses produce a mosaic pattern on peas. These viruses may be found singularly
or in combination with others. They cause irregular light and dark green mosaic
patterns in the leaves. Some viruses cause thickened, malformed leaves similar
in appearance to damage caused by hormone herbicides. The mosaic patterns are
best observed on the younger foliage. Plants may be stunted and fail to produce
normal pods. [Image] It is best to plant healthy,
disease-free seed rather than saving seed from a crop that showed infection. The
pinkeye purplehull variety is highly susceptible to Blackeye Cowpea Mosaic Virus
(BlCMV). This virus can be seed borne and is common where pinkeye purplehull is
grown. Resistant purplehull varieties include Pinkeye Purplehull BVR, Mopod and
Texas Pinkeye. Crowder type peas have shown good resistance to BlCMV. See variety
listing at end of section.
