Insects on my Hibiscus plant

by Gleason
(Dixon, Il)

My tropical hibiscus is indoors for the winter, and as expected, does not look happy. Recently, I've noticed tiny white bugs on the leaves. They are not creating holes, and there is no sign of rot. I still don't like the idea of bugs in my house! I have a croton house plant less than four feet away, and an arrowhead plant another 6 feet away, but there are no bugs on these plants. Any suggestions on how to get rid of the bugs? I have dogs and cats, so I have to be careful with pesticides, but the local nurseries are closed for the season, so there's not much available.

Answer: Take some rubbing alcohol and a cotton ball and wipe the area where the bugs are hanging out. If at all possible wipe the insects directly with the alcohol. Do not use excessively or it may dry and damage the leaves. This is a common treatment for many houseplants.

Good Luck