Question
Hibiscus bud with tiny
We recently moved our tropical hibiscus indoors for the winter. About 1 week later we noticed tiny black specs on the buds, along the bud stems and on the back side of some of the leaves. All appear only on the top part of the plant or outside buds. There is also tiny whitish specs on leaves under the infected buds. We took the plant outside and hosed it down. The black insects were all removed and we brought it back in. One week later, they were back and now they are so thick on the very smallest buds, that it appears they are damaging the buds. I have attached a picture of a bud taken before the first washing. We thought they were fungus gnats, but never see them move or fly. They are so small we could hardly tell what they were without glasses. Can you help me identify these and get rid of them so I don't have to get rid of my beautiful hibiscus. Thanks
AnswerLinda,
They are aphids. I suggest that you go to a garden center such as Lowes and get a bottle of Neem Oil. Mix it according to the directions on the bottle and spray the plant twice a week for the first week then once a week for three more weeks to kill the aphids and any eggs that hatch. Make sure you get the fronts and backs of all the leaves and all the buds. Keep your plants in the sunniest location possible and they will be less likely to be attacked by insects. It will take persistence with regular treatments to get rid of them but it is worth your time. Good luck.
Darlene
