Pest of the Month - Passionfruit Woodiness

What's it look like?

Woodiness in passionfruit shows up when fruit is dry and the rind is thickened so that the amount of pulp is reduced. Some passionfruit may have an irregular shape and the leaves may appear mottled or paler in color.

What it attacks

This virus only attacks passionfruit.

What to do before it arrives

The disease is carried by aphids and most passionfruit will eventually get the problem. So it is a good idea to keep replacing plants about every 4 years. Look for disease resistent cultivars.

What to do if you already have problems

There's not much you can do for these poor plants. Just keep feeding and watering them regularly to keep up vigorous growth. The symptoms appear worse in winter. If it's badly affected purchase a new plant and do not plant it in the same place.