Expert: C.L. Fornari - 10/26/2006

Question
Hello,
I live in Florida.
My 6 hybiscus bushes are dying. most of the leaves have fallen off. and no flowers.   I first noticed a white fuzz covering the branches. and then little black flies.  I went away for 3 weeks for work and have come back to notice these little white fuzzy bugs and the lose of most leaves.  I sprayed them today with an organic product called Organocide.  Is there anything else I should do? I don't want to lose these beautiful bushes. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.  
Thank you in advance.
Tracy, FL  

Answer
Tracy,
WHat you discribe could be one of several insects including aphids, white fly, or mealy bugs.  All of these can be controlled with an insecticidal soap product or horticultural oil. Both of these smother these insects.  I'm not familar with Organocide, so I don't know if it will work, but you can tell by looking on the label.  If the label says that it's good for aphids, white fly or mealy bugs, then you should be OK.  With such products it's good to apply them every ten days and spry UNDER the leaves as well as on top.  Be sure to water the plant deeply once a week (if in the ground) or more frequently if in a pot.  DO NOT fertilize until January - plants slow down at this time of year, even in Florida.  After New Year's you can start fertilizing again according to the directions on the fertilizer you are using.

I hope this helps!
C.L.