Ok folks. This is a newly found problem on one of my two huge strawberries and cream peonies. Is this tobacco rattle virus 🫣⁉️ I am really afraid it is a virus. 🥺 ripping out this peony is going to be heart breaking. Any thoughts or knowledge on concerns for treating the ground around this plant? Are beneficial nematodes a good idea in these cases?
I had to look up tobacco rattle virus. The related images have the same look as your plant. Sorry.☹️ The Michigan State University article states root nematodes causes the virus with no effective treatment methods or other nematodes to fight it. Removing the plants to prevent the spread of infection is the only option. 😫Disinfect infect tools/hands to prevent spreading.
1 Like Yeah. The Michigan State site was what led me down the path of tobacco rattle virus. I wasn’t sure with the nematodes if it was a particular type. I have another really big healthy peony right next to this one (not touching but about 2 feet apart) that I am now worried I will loose as well 😭
1 Like
Shoot 😔
1 Like
Maybe see if you have a local extension office that you can send pictures to before you rip it out? The university that has agriculture in your state will have one. They will have experts that can diagnose for sure before you have to pull it up.
3 Likes Thank you!! I live in Idaho and there is a very robust agricultural community and the extension office is very close. This is a great reminder!!
2 Likes This is such excellent advice, Chrissy!
0 Likes I actually obtained my Master Gardener certification this year from our extension here (UGA). I’m from Utah so I know that Idaho has a great agricultural scene. Let us know!!
2 Likes The master Gardner certification is amazing! Congratulations and very good job. That is not a small thing!! I will keep this pot updated on what I find out. Thank you!
1 Like