Gardeners warned after mite found

The plant becomes distorted when infected by the mites

A killer plant mite has been found in a town in Guernsey.

The Gall Mite cannot be seen with the naked eye but once infested can stop all new growth on fuchsia plants.

Infected flowers were found in a garden in St Peter Port. Plant health officers say "heavy-handed" control measures will be used if it spreads elsewhere.

It is carried by the wind, insects and birds. Local gardeners have been asked to check plants for symptoms which include swelling and odd outgrowths.

A widespread infestation could prevent commercial exportation of the plants, which become distorted once affected.

Officers said the mite had also been found in Brittany, France.