What Is Potato Ringspot: Recognizing Corky Ringspot In Potatoes

Corky ringspot is a problem affecting potatoes that can lead to real trouble, especially if you’re growing them commercially. While it may not kill the plant, it gives the potatoes themselves an unpleasant look that’s hard to sell and less than ideal to eat. Keep reading to learn more about recognizing and managing corky ringspot in potatoes.

Symptoms of Corky Ringspot in Potatoes

What is potato ringspot? Corky ringspot of potatoes is caused by a disease called tobacco rattle virus. This virus is spread primarily by stubby root nematodes, microscopic worms that feed on plant roots. These nematodes will feed on infected roots, then move on to the roots of uninfected plants, spreading the virus underground without your knowledge. Even once a potato is infected with corky ringspot, you may not realize it, as the symptoms are almost always underground. Occasionally, the leaves of the plant will appear smaller, puckered, and mottled. Usually, however, symptoms are only inside the potato, manifesting as darkly colored, cork-like textured rings, curves, and spots inside the flesh of the tuber. In tubers with thin or light skin, these dark areas can be seen on the surface. In severe cases, the shape of the tuber can become deformed.

How to Manage Potatoes with Corky Ringspot Virus

Unfortunately, there is no way to treat corky ringspot of potatoes, not least of all because you often don’t know you have it until you harvest and cut into your tubers. Prevention is key with corky ringspot. Only buy seed potatoes that are certified to be free of the virus, and don’t plant in soil that has already shown to contain the virus. When cutting potatoes for seed, sterilize your knife frequently, even if you don’t see any symptoms. Cutting into infected tubers is a common way for the virus to spread.