Abstract: This special focus is dedicated to three parts: i) One of the most ubiquitous viral pathogens of stone fruit tree, Plum pox virus (PPV); ii) a re-emerging pathogen, Wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) of cereal crops in Central Europe; and iii) a less studied plant parasitic, cyst-forming nematode in cereal crops Heterodera avenae.  The pathogens described here are a serious concern for fruit growers and producers of cereals in Europe and elsewhere in the world. This special focus provides the most updated knowledge of the given topics.