Chili Leaf Curl Virus (ChiLCV)

Chili Leaf Curl Virus, or ChiLCV, is among the most yield-limiting diseases chili growers face. This video breaks down how to spot it early and stop the whitefly vector that spreads it before it damages your crop. 🔍 What it is: A whitefly-transmitted Begomovirus complex, spread entirely by the whitefly vector (Bemisia tabaci) and not through seed. ⚠️ Symptoms to watch for: • Upward or downward curling and puckering of leaves • Vein thickening • Stunted plants • Reduced flowering and yield ✅ How to manage it: • Use virus-tolerant/resistant varieties • Control the whitefly vector • Remove infected plants promptly 🛡️ How to prevent it: • Use insect-proof nursery nets • Lay reflective mulch • Remove weed hosts Controlling whiteflies early is the key to keeping ChiLCV out of your chili crop.