Question
I have had this potted tree inside/outdoors for three years.  This year, before it went outdoors, I noted what appear to be webs on the tree.  I cannot find any creatures but something made those webs.  The tree has some small green lemons but is not well.  What do I have here and how do I make it better?

Barbara
Alexandria, Virginia


Answer
Hi Barbara, As I am an outdoor nursery I checked around for you and found this information to be very helpful for you... kathy
Insect infestations on citrus can become a problem quickly. Check your plants regularly for signs
of insects (webbing, sticky leaves, spotted leaves). At the first sign of insects, contact Molbak抯 Indoor Plant
Specialists. Our staff will readily diagnose the problem and offer the least toxic remedy for you to follow. It
is critical to the overall health of the plant that problems be diagnosed quickly.
The most common insects found on citrus are spider mites, scale and mealy bug. These insects suck the sap
of the plant and then secrete a sticky substance onto the surface of the leaves. This substance is referred to as
慼oneydew? In a severe infestation, the honeydew will drip from the plant onto lower leaves, carpet and
furnishings.
Spider mites are tiny insects that spin very delicate webs on the undersides of leaves. The insects are visible
with a hand lens. Increasing humidity discourages mites.
Scale are seen as dark bumps along the branches, leaves or trunk. Their live young are difficult to see and
are harbored under the scale covering. It is important when treating for scale to remove the old scale.
Mealy bug look like small bits of cotton. They are often found at the axil of the leaf and under the leaf.
If you suspect that your plant has insects, bring in the plant or a sample of the symptoms to Molbak抯 Indoor
Plant information center. Our staff will diagnose the problem and offer options for the plant抯 care.
The best cure for insects is prevention. A regular washing or spraying of the foliage with warm water will
minimize or prevent problems. Increasing humidity discourages insects.
SPECIAL NOTES: As subtropical plants, citrus enjoy average indoor temperatures. They prefer daytime
temperatures of 70?to 75篎 and 55?to 65癋 at night. Although they tolerate temperatures as low as 40?to
50篎, it may cause them to drop flower buds and fruit.