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Pests/Tiny greenish pests

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Expert: Mike Mascio - 8/26/2009


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Hello Mike,

I bought this plan(schfflera? looks like a big umbrella plant) a month ago from a reputable nursery in Boston. It seemed super healthy when I bought it but after a little while some of its top leaves started browning. I had a fruit fly problem with my home grown peppers but I dealt with that problem with neem spray. A couple of days ago, I saw some tiny greenish insects and web on the top leaves of my plant but I don't know how to take care of them. Can I use neem spray or should I just wash them of? What should I do with the brown leaves? I'm attaching some photos:

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/15/closeupa.jpg
http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/1206/1003240.jpg
http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/8380/1003242e.jpg

Thanks a lot,

Liz

Answer
I have never had success washing insects off plants. Many books claim this to be the first line of defense, but in my experience it is strictly a short term solution.

I would try the Neem, which should take care of the problem. Other alternatives include pyrethrum and rotenone. All are organic products that are non-toxic to humans and pets. Attached are two great sources for organic insecticides and fungicides. They both provide free catalogs upon request.

http://www.planetnatural.com

http://www.gardensalive.com

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentIt was a very quick reply - same day. I'll try the solution you suggested. Thanks a lot!


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Mike Mascio

Expertise

I have been an avid gardener since 1985 and an AllExpert volunteer since 1998. I specialize in soil preparation, seed starting and plant propagation, flowers, vegetables, and general landscaping. I am a strong advocate of the square foot method of gardening and the use of organic controls for pests and diseases.

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