Buds have little pieces of dirt (excriment?)

[jack6742]

All of the buds have small, about the size of a pin head) specks of dirt or excriment on them. I can't find any bugs or worms. I've sprayed it off with water. Any thoughts?? It's a potted plant in North Port, FL

[Pachrian]

Many insects are active at night and hide when it's light and warm. That's why you may not be able to see any, but the specs suggest that they are there. Maybe you can go out and check with a flashlight tonight?

[Charlie]

I agree with Pachrian - check it out if you get the chance.

Aphids come in many colors, including black. In spring you can spot them clinging to buds sometimes. The other common pests of hibiscus do not usually leave any signs of their presence on buds, normally it is the leaves and particularly the undersides of leaves where you will see such deposits. The sap sucker types can excrete excess sugars called honeydew that fall onto the tops of leaves. These are sticky but clear until black sooty mold grows in the honeydew.

Charlie

[jack6742]

Thanks, it was pouring last nite, tonite I'll go out with my flashlight and report back.