Progressive Tan Leaf Edges on African Violets: Possible Tobacco Necrosis Virus

Celeste's African violets showed spreading tan edges on leaves—starting as thin lines, thickening until only centers remained green. Plant flowered and leaves weren't wilted. She feared collection wipeout.

Serious Diagnosis: Tobacco Necrosis Necrovirus

Symptoms match this virus transmitted by soil fungus (Olpidium brassicae). Causes leaf/stem rot, eventually fatal. No cure—chemicals ineffective.

Immediate Actions

1. ISOLATE symptomatic plants immediately
2. Destroy severely affected plants
3. Propagate healthy leaves from best plants (isolate these too)
4. Try fungicides (Banrot, Fung-away) but low expectation
5. Seek professional diagnosis (extension office/botanical garden)

Prevention

High humidity promotes this and similar rots. Monitor carefully. This is becoming more common in collections.