AbstractThe detection of luteoviruses by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) depends on the adequate quality and quantity of extracted viral nucleic acids. We have optimized the detection of Bean leaf roll virus (BLRV) using selective precipitation by LiCl of viral RNA from a small quantity of infected plant tissues and insect vectors. The optimal template for PCR was 15 μl of RT reaction mixture. BLRV was detected in different plant hosts and aphid vectors and Aphis fabae, previously considered to be a non‐vector of BLRV, was found to acquire the virus from infected plants.