Virus Diseases of Ornamentals

Virus diseases pose a significant threat to the ornamental plant industry, reducing plant productivity, diminishing product quality, and causing economic losses. Global trade and adoption of new ornamental crops increase the risk of introducing new pathogens, especially viruses. This Working Group focuses on biology, identification and epidemiology of viral diseases in ornamentals, highlighting emerging threats, advanced detection and treatment methods. In recent years the Working Group has increased emphasis on the documented and potential impact of climate change and environmental shifts on viral spread among ornamental plants. This Working Group invites participation of all horticulturists interested in biology of viruses that infect ornamental plants as well as those involved in the production, handling and marketing of virus-free ornamental plants. This Working Group is particularly valuable for virologists involved with horticultural crops because containment/management of plant viruses requires scientific networks and collaborations in today’s global market driven economies.