Pacific Pests, Pathogens and Weeds

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Summary

• Distribution not well known. Caribbean, Brazil, Oceania. On ornamental Hibiscus and okra. A major pest affecting appearance.
• Mites live in the buds where feeding stimulates bumpy light green galls on leaves, petioles and young stems. Gall surface has felt-like hairs.
• Spread in wind, on cuttings, birds and insects.
• Natural enemies: predatory mites.
• Cultural control: healthy cuttings; prune mite-affected parts; tolerant varieties.
• Chemical control: PDPs: garlic or derris; or sulphur, white oil, or abamectin. Note predatory mites will be killed by application of pesticides.