Fuchsia gall mite
Aculops fuchsiae
1 host plant
Last updated
Fuchsia plants develop distinctive blisterlike galls on leaves and stems, typically appearing in late spring and intensifying through summer. The galls range from small pimple-like protrusions to larger blotchy areas that cause leaves to become distorted, curled, and eventually discolored. Affected foliage takes on a reddish or brownish hue. Microscopic eriophyid mites (0.2 mm) live inside the galls and are invisible to the naked eye.
Prune out heavily galled branches and dispose of them away from the garden. Maintain good air circulation and avoid overhead watering, which favors mite reproduction. Isolate affected plants to prevent spread. Sulfur dust applied early in the season may suppress mites. Focus on removing plant material as the primary management strategy.
Quick Reference
Cultural Controls
- Plant resistant species and varieties of fuchsia.
- Consider replacing highly susceptible varieties where possible.
- Prune or pinch out and destroy or dispose of damaged tissues.
- Be sure to cut back to healthy tissues.
- Do not compost infested plant materials.
- Wash hands, gloves, and clothing and clean your tools after working with infested plants.