I get a weekly newsletter from Heirloom Seeds [www.heirloomseeds.com] that deals with common garden problems, etc. Maybe someone there reads the Chile-Head List <g> cuz here's this week's subject: ==begin quote HEIRLOOM SEEDS NEWSLETTER week of 11/08/98 THIS WEEKS PROBLEM: Mosaic Virus This disease can be found in all areas of North America and is a strong threat to many plants, including potatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, and turnips. The disease overwinters in perennial weeds, and is often spread by aphids in the early spring to other host plants. It is so contagious that it can be spread by garden tools and even by human hands that have handled infected plants. DAMAGE: The plants are stunted and their yields are greatly reduced. Mosaic affects a wide range of woody and herbaceous plants. PROPER TREATMENT: It is important that you control aphids and leafhoppers if you have identified them on your plants (both these pests transmit the virus). Remember to keep your garden free of weeds and plant debris (clean up in the fall is important). Cultivate, weed and harvest vegetables when the foliage is dry. Mosaic virus is spread easily when the foliage is wet. Since there is no known cure for this virus, you will have to pull up and destroy the plant once it has been infected. Burn the plants or dispose of them with your household garbage. ==end quote === Dave Sacerdote davesas@tiac.net Resist or Serve. "I am so mighty, I do not have to kill you all." -- Flaming Carrot Visit Dave's New England Almanac: http://www.tiac.net/users/davesas