Dragonfli Supply BBC With Amblyseius Andersoni Predators As Monty Don Shows Off Biological Control Of Fuchsia Gall Mite On Gardeners' World

Friday, August 23rd's edition of Gardeners' World (Episode 22) featured Monty Don applying one of Dragonfli's biological control products for treating Fuchsia Gall Mite.

Monty was shown applying one of our Amblyseius andersoni sachets to Fuchsias in his greenhouse. Dragonfli were happy to supply the BBC with the product and such media interest further signifies how prevalent Fuchsia Gall Mites are this year.  

What Are Fuchsia Gall Mites?

Fuchsia Gall Mites are difficult to detect as they are microscopic and cannot be seen with the naked eye. The damage they cause, however, is far more noticeable.

Fuchsia Gall Mite is a sap-sucker. Infestation will lead to the growth of Fuchsias becoming stunted and shoot tips will swell and distort. Flowers also often fail to develop.

This tiny mite can have several generations a year and outside is active
from May to September. In warm glasshouses, however, they can remain active all year.

Control Fuchsia Gall Mites Naturally With Amblyseius Andersoni

Although quite a recent pest in the UK, the Gall Mite is already largely resistant to insecticides. Luckily we have a native predatory mite that will seek out and consume Gall Mites. Amblyseius andersoni is supplied in bottles, or slow release sachets.

For a quick release, the predators can be shaken from our bottles directly over infected plants.

For a longer release, hang our sachets (this is the product Monty showcased on BBC's Gardeners' World) on the plant.

These sachets will release predatory mites for up to 4 weeks. For best results cut out infected growth and buds first, then allow the predatory mites to protect the new growth.