The following photos were taken of a grouping of Impatiens - cultivar Tioga - that had been in the greenhouse for approximately two months. Symptoms first started appearing approximately two weeks prior to these photos being taken. Note the wide range of symptoms that appear on infected plants. The symptoms may even differ between cultivars of the same plant.

Many vegetables, weeds and flower crops are susceptible to INSV. Controlling the spread of INSV is based on the control of the vector, elimination of infected plants and purchasing disease-free starts from reputable suppliers.

The Western Flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentallis) is the only known vector of this virus problem.

The preliminary identification of this disease was confirmed by the Plant Disease Diagnostic Lab in Jefferson County (Colorado) using serological techniques.

Tahiti and Prepona New Guinea Impatiens show different symptoms when infected with Impatiens Necrotic Spot Virus, as do tuberous-rooted begonias.

Blackened stems are very characteristic of INSV on impatiens.

Additional information on INSV can be found in the American Phytopathological Society Compendium of Flowering Potted Plant Diseases, 1995. APS Press. Daughtrey, M.L., R.L. Wick and J.L. Peterson, Editors.

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