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Doomed hibiscus? #923565

Asked January 13, 2026, 10:51 AM EST

I brought our hibiscus indoors for the winter, which I did successfully last year. This year, however, I have a bug problem that I hope I can thwart. Attached is a picture of the tiny black bugs -- they are almost entirely on the buds and bud stems. I don't see anything on the underside of the leaves, although some leaves have browned edges (visible on one of the pics). I cut off all the buds about a month ago when this happened and gave it a dose of soap, but they are back. Sunday I sprayed with Safer Insecticidal Soap but did not remove the buds. Is this plant doomed? I cannot tell what kind of pest this is. Can you help?

Prince George's County Maryland

Expert Response

These are aphids, and very common when you bring hibiscus or other tropical plants inside for the winter.

The link provided will give you management tips but the insecticidal soap should start working. It may take a few rounds since aphids reproduce so quickly. It kills on contact so it could be taking care of the first generation, and then more are hatching, which you will need to spray again. Just follow the label directions on the pesticide and make sure it's labeled for indoor use. Even so, it's a good idea to spray in a well-ventilated area or outside if it's warm enough. 

You can also help remove the aphids by putting the plant in the shower and spraying it off with water. Since they are sticky (really, the honeydew excretions they produce are, but it helps hold them on), you may need to gently wipe them off under the stream of water. 

So no, your hibiscus isn't doomed. It just needs a little help!

Let us know if you have further questions. 

Emily

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