Destructive flower pest confirmed

The fuchsia gall mite is spread by the wind, insects and birds
A destructive pest that attacks the fuchsia flower has been confirmed in three separate cases in the South.

The fuchsia gall mite is a notifiable infestation, which means any suspected outbreaks have to be reported to Defra.

Plant health and seed inspectors confirmed the latest case in Allington, Kent, this week. It has previously been found in Hampshire and Middlesex.

A government scientist said the mites could spread very quickly, and all infected flowers have to be destroyed.

The mites were found in California in 1981, in Brittany, France, in 2003, and then in Guernsey last year.