Question
I just noticed that one of my house plants has been covered on stems, leaves and flowers by something small, yellowish in color and that seams to move but not all the time or everywhere. During the summer we take the indoor plants outside on the deck. This year we brought them inside about 2-3 weeks ago when the cold hit. My husband takes care of all plants I mostly love and admire them. Today as I got close to this plant I noticed the bad stuff on it. My husband noticed a little change a while back but it obviously got extensive quickly. For the past 2 years this plant has been blooming this pretty looking flowers, winter or summer, smelling soooo nice. Please, can you help our plant. I will try to send pictures of it to help with the diagnosis.
Thank you.

Maria

Answer
Hi Maria,

Thank you for the excellent photos. Your Hoya (wax plant) has a pretty serious infestation of aphids.

Start by pruning off the long stems that are covered with the aphids. Then mix up a solution of 5 parts water and one part rubbing alcohol and a squirt of liquid dish soap. Spray the entire plant very thoroughly until all leaves and stems are dripping wet. (You may want to to this outside!)

Thoroughness of coverage is the key. You may want to repeat the treatment again in a week to be on the safe side. After that, be alert for any return of the aphids and treat any that you see right away. The sooner you start the treatment the easier it is.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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