New PCR tests for viruses in Chrysanthemum and other ornamental crops
Publicationdate: 16 september 2026
As of 1 September, we can use PCR testing to determine the presence or absence of specific viruses in, among other things, leaf material from chrysanthemum. The following viruses can be tested: Chrysanthemum stem necrosis virus (CSNV, EPPO code CSNV00), Chrysanthemum virus B (CVB, EPPO code CVB000), Tomato aspermy virus (TAV, EPPO code TAV000). This test is carried out using the rapid, reliable and sensitive real-time PCR method.
Phasing out ELISA
With the introduction of these new PCR tests, we will discontinue the ELISA test for CSNV. For Chrysanthemum, PCR testing will replace ELISA testing. From 1 November, ELISA tests for chrysanthemum can no longer be requested.
The (real-time) PCR is a technique for rapid amplification of DNA
This is done with the help of pathogen-specific building blocks. The increase in RNA can be monitored digitally at any time. This makes it possible to faster and with more certainty confirm whether the seed samples actually contain the pathogen.
Viruses in Chrysanthemum and other ornamental crops
Chrysanthemum stem necrosis virus (CSNV)
CSNV is a quarantine virus belonging to the (ortho)tospovirus group. The virus is related to Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) and is transmitted by, among others, western flower thrips.
In the past, CSNV has been detected several times in Chrysanthemum cuttings originating from countries including Brazil. The virus has since been reported in several other countries, including Japan and Iran. Although the host range includes various plant species, Chrysanthemum and tomato remain the most important host plants.
As its name suggests, CSNV causes stem necrosis symptoms.
The PCR protocol has been approved by the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) and can be used for import and export testing.
Chrysanthemum virus B (CVB) and Tomato aspermy virus (TAV)
CVB and TAV can also occur in Chrysanthemum. Both viruses have a wider host range than Chrysanthemum alone and are spread by aphids.
The CVB PCR test detects CVB as well as the closely related Helenium virus S (HVS).
CSNV, CVB and TAV on leaf material
- Sample size: Maximum 2, 10 or 25 leaf pieces
- Test fee: € 11, € 22,80 and € 59,70 respectively per virus
- Duration test: 4 days
For basic fees see our price list.
Naktuinbouw Laboratories support sector
To support the sector, we continue to develop new tests that can support diagnoses on plants and seeds with symptoms or just checking for and guaranteeing absence from certain plant pathogens.