Hibiscus Insect

The top of the leaves became sticky and I soon noticed what appeared to be a small drop of dried blood up and down the branches (hundreds). Upon close examination, I revealed a fragile shell-like structure with a moist interior, later noting eggs inside and a moving developing bug.

I scraped all these off and sprayed with a product on hand called ‘Hot Shot’. I did happen to see one lady bug on the plant which escaped. The next day more of these droplets started forming. What is it, and how do I treat it? Plants are normally terrific bloomers and I hope to save them. They were in the house in a large container when this began. . . now out on the deck!

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1 Comment To "Hibiscus Insect"

#1 Comment By Nikki On 04/07/2011 @ 7:14 am

They are most likely aphids. The ladybugs like to eat them, so that was why you saw one. Here is an article to help you with that:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/homemade-aphid-control-a-natural-way-to-kill-aphids.htm ^[1]

There is also a chance that it could be scale, which has similar symptoms and is treated the same. This article willhelp you with that:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/scale-bug-how-to-control-plant-scale.htm ^[2]

Neem oil is effective in treating both insects. This article has more info on using neem oil: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm ^[3]

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[1] https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/homemade-aphid-control-a-natural-way-to-kill-aphids.htm: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/homemade-aphid-control-a-natural-way-to-kill-aphids.htm

[2] https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/scale-bug-how-to-control-plant-scale.htm: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/scale-bug-how-to-control-plant-scale.htm

[3] https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm

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