Hello everyone. I've worked several spring/summer seasons in a large garden center for several years. I've learned a lot, but as a merchandiser, I'm no expert. Last summer I decided to take a chance and buy a red hibiscus - I live in southern Wisconsin - and when the weather got colder I took it to my office, replanted in a larger container, and placed it in a sunny window. The leaves were 'sticky' for weeks and weeks and then I noticed what looks like a white peppery soot over the leaves. Nevertheless, it (otherwise) looked great and I had numerous blooms. In the last two weeks, it has taken a turn for the worse: leaves at the top, but branches look as though they have been stripped down to the soil. Today I noticed these bugs all over the leaves. The pic quality is poor due to the close-up I attempted, but best I can do of these six-legged brown with orange backed nasties. Does anyone have an idea what these guys are? Aphids or something else? Would it be best to try Neem Oil or my own dish soap DIY solution? I also have some food grade diatomaceous earth capsulses. With the latter, should I place the DE in water or sprinkle dry over the leaves? Any replies greatly appreciated!
