Future and fuchsia not looking so good

Well, we have a disease problem with Impatiens and now, unfortunately, it appears that Fuchsias appear to be threatened. Here's an extract from an article in the Amateur Gardening Magazine quoting the RHS:

"Fuchsia gall mite, which was unheard of in the UK before 2007, has become widely established along the South Coast - and is heading North.

Tiny fuchsia gall mites have a big impact on the growth of fuchsias. They feed on shoot tips and flower buds, leaving both distorted. Affected plants are unable to produce normal leaves and flowers.

RHS principal entomologist Andrew Halstead described the pest as "devastating" and said he expected it to spread nation wide. "unfortunately there are no effective pesticides for garden use. Because the damage cannot be controlled, it may lead to a decline in the popularity of this valuable garden plant."

 

I don't want to be tagged with the "Messenger of Doom" title, so I'm desperately trying to find some good news. But I'd rather post the bad new so we're all forewarned and forearmed.

I've got a feeling, Joolz, that, being at as high level as you are, you stand a good chance of avoiding the gall mite. It can't just sweep the country without finding some areas not suitable for it.:D

 

Thank you, Ziggy, my friend, my pal, my mate...............that was sooooooooooooo helpful:DOH::D

 

As always, you're forgiven:D