Beet Curly Top

Beet Leafhopper Curculifer tenellus

Identification

  • Curly Top is a virus transmitted by the sugar beet leafhopper
  • Leafhoppers overwinter on numerous annual host weeds
  • Occurs in semi-arid climates
  • The spring hatched leafhoppers will move into the succulent beet vegetation carrying the virus with them
 

Detection

  • Rolled up leaves that are twisted and significantly stunted
  • Veins on the underside of the leaf are rough, swollen and bumpy
  • Cross sectioned root will be blackened
  • Many lateral roots may appear, causing a bearded look
  • If the infection occurs early in the growth stage, the beets may die or suffer major losses
 

Control

  • Plant early
  • Curly top resistant varieties
  • Close canopy early
  • A border treatment with an insecticide can form a barrier to help suppress damage
  • Use PonchoBeta or Cruiser seed treatment