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Hibiscus Gall Midge

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Overview of Hibiscus Gall Midge

The Hibiscus Gall Midge is a tiny pest that primarily affects hibiscus plants, causing premature bud drop. This midge can pose a serious threat to the health and appearance of hibiscus and orchids, especially in South Florida, where it thrives year-round.

Identification

Signs of a Hibiscus Gall Midge infestation include:

  • Yellowing flower buds
  • Tiny worm-like larvae inside the buds

How to Inspect:

  1. Pick a yellowing flower bud and open it carefully to check for larvae.
  2. Collect dropped flower buds in a sealed ziplock bag. After a couple of hours, inspect the bag for small larvae that may have exited the buds.

Environment

Hibiscus Gall Midge thrives in warm climates, with populations peaking during warmer months.

  • Egg Laying: Adult midges lay eggs at the open tips of young buds.
  • Feeding: Larvae feed on the buds before “jumping” several inches to the ground to pupate.
  • Pupation: Pupae live in moist soil for 14–21 days before emerging as adults to repeat the life cycle.

Threats

  • Primary Hosts: Hibiscus and orchids.
  • Damage: Causes premature bud drop, leading to reduced flowering and plant health.

Treatment

To effectively manage a Hibiscus Gall Midge infestation:

  • Systemic Pesticides: Use a systemic pesticide to kill larvae inside flower buds.
  • Soil Treatment: Treat the soil around the plant to kill larvae that burrow into the ground.
  • Sanitation: Remove yellowing flowers and dropped buds promptly to prevent larvae from entering the soil.