Question
I have the Jamboree Burgundy petunias planted in a hanging basket. They are in full sun for most of the day- and are flourishing except for the fact that the leaves are covered in little green flies and white flies as well. They seem to be stuck to the plant- not really damaging it but it is GROSS!!! How do I get rid if these bugs without damaging the petunias?
Thanks!

Answer
Hi Erinn:

I think you have aphids and white flies. Both are sucking insects that feed by piercing the leaves and sucking out sap. Right now it may seem they aren't doing anything but they are, and if you left them alone, you would soon see the damage.

Insecticidal soap will take care of both of these insects very well, and it's a green product. Lift down the plant and spray the entire plant getting the undersides of the leaves. Repeat again in about 10 days, and watch to see if you've got them all. If you haven't spray again. Do it in early morning or early evening. A hot midday sun will burn wet leaves and leaving a plant wet at night is an invitation for fungal diseases.

Hope this helps                         Myrna