Cyclamen mite

Cyclamen mite feeds on new growth of Arbutus and fuchsia in moist Western Washington sites, causing puckering, distortion, and browning of leaves and stems. You will not see the mites themselves without magnification, but you cannot miss the symptoms: stunted, curled new growth that appears abnormal. Damage becomes most obvious in spring as new foliage unfolds. Heavy infestations can severely reduce plant vigor and flowering.

Isolate infested plants from susceptible plants to prevent mite spread. Prune out heavily damaged growth to stimulate fresh, healthy foliage production. Increase air circulation and reduce humidity around plants if possible; cyclamen mites thrive in warm, moist conditions. Spray sulfur dust or miticidal soap on new growth as it emerges, repeating every 10 to 14 days through the spring growth period. Discard severely affected plants if they do not respond to management within two weeks.