Managing Grapevine Leafroll Disease

By  Laura Miles and Jan Byrne et.al

In collaboration with the Michigan State University grape team and funding from Michigan State Horticultural Society and Michigan Craft Beverage Council, we are releasing a new Michigan Grape Facts resource for growers battling grapevine leafroll disease or simply wanting to keep informed. Michigan Grape Facts: Managing Grapevine Leafroll Disease is now available at the MSU Extension Grapes website.

Download Michigan Grape Facts: Managing Grapevine Leafroll Disease

Viruses associated with grapevine leafroll disease can be common issues in viticultural regions and Michigan is no exception. The extent of the impact that this disease can have varies depending on the circumstances in a particular vineyard block. Factors that include grape variety, viruses involved and environmental conditions drive the expression of disease symptoms. In general, the management of diseases caused by viruses starts with prevention; however, grape growers can make use of the management strategies laid out in the fact sheet to reduce the effects of grapevine leafroll disease.

Key messages

• Avoid – Do not use budwood or cuttings of unknown health status.
• Exclude – Plant virus-tested material from a reputable nursery.
• Protect – Apply dormant sprays to control overwintering mealybugs and scale insects.
• Eradicate – Remove all virus-infected vines.