Mung Leaves Turning Yellow? IARI Shares Key Measures to Prevent Yellow Mosaic Virus

May 26, 2025 Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), IARI Advisory

26 May 2025, New Delhi: Farmers growing mung (moong) beans often encounter a troubling issue — the yellowing of leaves. While many attribute this to a lack of nutrients, agricultural scientists warn that it may actually be a sign of Yellow Mosaic Virus (YMV), a viral disease that can significantly impact crop yields.

Experts from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) have issued an advisory to help farmers identify, prevent, and manage the spread of YMV in mung crops.

Yellowing Leaves — A Clear Sign of Yellow Mosaic Virus

According to IARI, if the mung plant’s leaves begin to turn yellow with a distinct net-like or mosaic pattern, it indicates an attack by Yellow Mosaic Virus. The virus affects chlorophyll in the plant, disrupting photosynthesis and causing a major drop in yield.

How Does the Virus Spread?

YMV spreads primarily through insect vectors, especially whiteflies. These insects pick up the virus from infected plants and transmit it to healthy ones, causing rapid spread across the field. Immediate action is therefore crucial to stop the infestation early.

IARI’s First Recommendation: Remove Infected Plants Immediately

The first and most important step is to identify and uproot all infected plants from the field. Leaving them in place allows whiteflies to continue spreading the virus to healthy plants.

Chemical Control: Use Imidacloprid

IARI scientists recommend using the insecticide Imidacloprid to control whiteflies and other vectors that transmit YMV. For effective application:

Mix 50–60 ml of Imidacloprid
In 200 litres of water
And spray per acre of crop

This treatment helps control the population of whiteflies and limits the spread of the virus.

While spraying, farmers are advised to take all necessary safety precautions — including using masks and gloves. Additionally, installing yellow sticky traps in the field can help monitor and control insect populations effectively.

Timely Action Can Save the Crop

Yellow Mosaic Virus poses a serious threat to mung cultivation. However, if farmers follow IARI’s integrated approach — combining early detection, removal of infected plants, and proper use of insecticides — they can effectively manage the disease and prevent significant yield losses.

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