Question
I have two hibiscus trees which I purchased last
fall.  I left them outdoors until the weather turned cooler (Late Sept.) and then I brought them
indoors.  They are both thriving, lots of new
growth and they continue to bloom, however, they are covered with little white insects.  What can
I use to get rid of these tiny bugs?  Also, the
trees seem to be giving off a very sticky substance.  Is this normal for hibiscus?
Thank you.
Susan

Answer
Hi Susan,
The insects covering your hibiscus tree are most likely one of two things.  If they are flying insects they are probably white fly if they are flat and just look like spots they are scale in the crawler stage.  Both of these insects suck the sugars out of the plant.  They excrete the excess sugar they cannot use and this is called honeydew.  The honeydew is the sticky substance you have noticed. It sounds like you have an advanced infestation so I recommend you act quickly.  You can buy pesticides to kill scale and white fly at any garden center.  Just check the label to make sure the insects are listed and check to see that it doesn't have any warnings against using on your hibiscus.  There are other home remedies but I find they are not as effective and would recommend you get a pesticide if you want to save your plants.
Hope this helps,
Nick Baker