Question
I have a hibiscus plant that seems to attract yellow jacket wasps. They don't appear to be doing any damage to the plant, but they are quite aggressive. What is drawing them and how do I get rid of them?

Answer
They are more than likely feeding on a substance called honeydew. Aphids and scale insects suck the plant juices from the plant and secrete a substance called honeydew which is high in sugar content and sticky. Ants, wasps and bees feed on this honeydew. Control the aphids and scales and the yellow jackets should go away --unless they have a nest under the bush. Treat the plant with an insecticide called Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insect control. This is applied to the soil around the plant and the roots carry it to the leaves and stems and when the insects suck the juices they are killed. It will take a week or so for the insecticide to reach the leaves depending on the size of the plants. This product will protect the plant for the season,. Here is a web link to more information on this product. http://www.bayeradvanced.com/tree-shrub-care/products/12-month-tree-shrub-insect...