Effects of artichoke latent virus and broad bean wilt virus isolate FA on components of growth and yield of globe artichoke

The effects of single and mixed artificial infections by artichoke latent virus (ALV) and broad bean wilt virus isolate FA (BBWV-FA) on components of growth and yield of three globe artichoke lines were evaluated in an aphid-free glasshouse. Virus infections reduced plant vigour (length of leaves and height of the ramifications) and dry weight, increased dry matter percentage, lengthened harvest period, and induced significant losses in the number of harvested buds, which resulted from reduced production of ramifications. However, the magnitude of affected parameters depended on inherent line differences and the type of virus infection. The greatest reductions occurred with the ALV + BBWV-FA infection. In single infections ALV led to the more severe effects, especially on components of yield. The level of ALV coat protein, as determined by ELISA, indicated differences in titre between plants of three lines. Can line, which exhibited greater yield reduction than Cada or CBT lines, had the higher ALV virus titre. Conversely Cari was less susceptible to BBWV-FA infection than Cada. The detrimental effects of virus infection emphasize the need for virus control, and differences in responses among lines indicate the possibility of control by plant breeding.