Viral Diseases, an Emerging Threat to Marigold Cultivation

Marigold (Tagetes spp.) is a commercially significant ornamental crop in the family Asteraceae. It is valued for its bright, attractive flowers, which are extensively used in religious and cultural ceremonies, garland making, and decorative purposes. It possesses recognized insecticidal and medicinal properties due to its phenolic and antioxidant compounds. Despite its widespread use, the crop is highly susceptible to various pathogens, including viruses, which cause substantial yield loss. Several viruses have been reported in marigold, causing a variety of symptoms such as chlorosis, mosaic patterns, mottling, and bronzing. This review highlights the different viruses infecting marigolds, focusing on their symptoms, host range, and mechanisms of transmission.