Longitudinal multispectral image dataset for ToBRFV disease detection in tomato and pepper plants

ToBRFV is a major threat to tomato and pepper crops because it spreads quickly and survives for a long time in the environment. Since there are few ways to control it after infection, early detection before symptoms are visible is crucial. Yet, only limited public datasets are available for this research. We present one of the first openly accessible, longitudinal multispectral image dataset dedicated to ToBRFV detection. In this study, two tomato cultivars and two pepper cultivars, all of which are commercially important and widely cultivated in greenhouses, were selected. Using these plants ensures that the dataset reflects real-world agricultural practices and captures variability across commercially grown types. Both healthy and ToBRFV-inoculated plants from each cultivar were included in the imaging process. All plants were cultivated under fully controlled greenhouse conditions in Adana Province, Türkiye. Healthy and infected tomato plants were grown in two separate greenhouses to prevent cross-contamination. Imaging was conducted over a 29-day period using Red-Green-Blue (RGB) and Visible Near Infrared (VNIR) cameras, including narrowband captures at 800 nm and 1000 nm, from multiple viewing angles. Infection status was confirmed via Reverse Transcription quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis at multiple time points. The dataset is organized into four clean, labelled subsets and released under a CC BY 4.0 license. This resource provides unique opportunities for developing and benchmarking computer vision and machine learning approaches for pre-symptomatic plant disease detection, spectral feature analysis, and integration into precision agriculture systems. By combining controlled experimental design, spectral diversity, and open access, it establishes a robust foundation for cross-disciplinary research in plant pathology, agricultural engineering, and artificial intelligence.