ABSTRACT
Viral diseases are major biotic factors that affect productivity of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) worldwide. Okra mosaic disease (OMD) caused by Okra mosaic virus (OkMV; genus Tymovirus; family Tymoviridae) and Okra leaf curl disease (OLCD) caused by a complex of begomoviruses: Cotton leaf curl Gezira virus (CLCuGV]), Okra yellow crinkle virus (OYCrV), Hollyhock leaf crumple virus (HoLCrV), and Okra leaf curl virus (OLCV) are the major viral diseases of okra in West Africa including Ghana. OLCD and OMD are commonly observed among okra crops in Ghana, with disease incidence of up to 100% depending on the okra cultivar and stage of growth. Management of OLCD and OMD involves the use of both synthetic and phytopesticides against the Bemisia tabaci and Podagrica spp. vectors, respectively, as well as the use of compost and fertilizers to ensure healthy growth of plant and to improve the tolerance of plants against viral infection. Resistance and tolerant okra genotypes have so been identified and their integration with phytopesticides and judicious use of chemical pesticides is recommended for effective management of these viral diseases.
