hibiscus has black pepper on blooms

Question

Only past week, black pepper looking tiny, round pellets are on the yellow blooms. It can be scraped off, yet there are many. What is it and what do I do about it? Thanks a million in advance. All else is very healthy. In shade most of the time; hot and humid climate now.

Answer 1

Not sure but I think it may be scale. We recommend spraying neem oil to treat them. Here is information on scale and neem oil: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/scale-bug-how-to-control-plant-scale.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/problems/pests/neem-oil-uses.htm