Question
Five weeks ago, I bought a beautiful Ming aralia from my local garden center and it has recently put out its first set of new leaves in my care.  Another new leaf is starting to open on a smaller stem. However, this new leaf is crawling with tiny green insects (about the size of a period) that are only on the new growth. Since this is a house plant, I am reluctant to use harsh chemicals to do away with them, but I also don't want them spreading to my other plants.  Can you give me some advise as to what I should do?

Answer
I would spray them with an insecticidal soap. You can purchase this product at most nurseries or on-line through Gardens Alive or Planet Natural. You can also make your own solution by adding 3 tsp. of non-concentrated lemon dish liquid soap per gallon of water. Transfer the solution to a hand sprayer and lightly mist the plants once per day until the pests are gone.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike