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Stunt
Stunt phytoplasma
Annemiek Schilder, MSU Plant Pathology
Bill Cline, NCSU Plant Pathology
Stunt is a virus-like disease mainly present in eastern North America.

Symptoms
Infected bushes are severely stunted and branches appear bushy because of shortened internodes. Leaves are cupped slightly downward and may also have chlorotic areas that turn red in fall.

Short bushy growth at base of infected bush.  
Disease cycle
The stunt phytoplasma is a microorganism that inhabits the sapwood and is vectored by sharp-nosed leafhoppers (Scaphytopius spp.). Infections coincide with peaks in leafhopper activity and become systemic. Plants are infected for life.
Left, stunt causes leaf cupping and interveinal chlorosis. Right, a stunted bush (left) next to a healthy bush.
Management
Plant virus-tested, clean planting stock; remove and destroy infected plants; monitor leafhoppers and apply well-timed insecticides.
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Last Updated - 6/22/07