Expert: nick mccann - 8/25/2009

Question
I live in Mallorca, so we have hot summers. I have geraniums in pots in my yard, but have been plagued by a grey/silver small moth or butterfly which  is causing the new buds to become black and bitty. They also seem to kill off new flower buds. The ground around the pot is covered with what looks like little black droppings. I have new seeds for a scented variety for next year, and I dont want this happening again.....any suggestions gratefully received...Thanks.

Answer
Hi Lyn, it sounds like White Fly, but I would need to see them to be sure, the problem here is that whatever you treat it with that will eliminate the White Fly larvae, will also kill visiting Bees and we don't want that, so I would spray it with a Horticultural Oil, this will deter the White Fly from laying its eggs, hence the larvae problem will solved. Always follow the directions on the label. Nick