Question
Hi - I live in Wisconsin, and recently brought in a Hibiscus plant that resided outside during the summer into the house. Since I repotted it and brought it in, it has had problems - dropping buds, blooms and yellow leaves. Today I noticed a horrid covering of many buds - they are covered with brown tiny bubbles. I have photos, but not sure how to send them. Looks like sawdust on the leaves. I'm concerned about the plant, and I also have the plant in a room filled with clothing - hoping it is not a bug that could get on and damage the clothing. Can you help?  

Answer
Hi Holly,
Thanx for your question.  It sounds like you have some kind of pest on the plant.  Look on the undersides of the leaves to see if you can see tiny aphids or tiny white worms.  In any case, take some aluminum foil and make a guard around the top of the pot.  Take the pot to the shower and turn the water on at a moderate, light spray.  The aluminum will keep the soil from getting everywhere and making a mess.  But the spray of water will clean the plant.  It won't eliminate all the problem but it is very helpful.  Use a slightly tepid temperature, not completely cold water.  After that, you can use a mix of 1 tsp of Dawn or Murphy's Oil Soap to 1 gallon of water and spray the plant (underside of leaves too) and this will control insects.  I hope this helps.
Tom