Q. My jatropha has white fuzzy growth that is attacking the leaves and stems. How can I control this pest permanently? -- Mrs. S. Goldstein, Boca Raton

A. The problem is mealybug. You can use systemic Orthene on the plant to clear up the mealybug. Treat twice at 10-day intervals. Spray in the early morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler. Do not use a systemic insecticide on things you eat because the entire plant becomes poisonous, including the fruit.

Q. Where can I get wood rose? -- Anita Katz, Boca Raton

A. This is a very aggressive vine that smothers trees and anything else it climbs over. The wood roses are the hardened seed pods that look like roses made of wood. No one sells it to my knowledge. If you want the pods, you may be able to purchase them at a florist shop.

Q. My yard is overrun with big frogs. I keep a bucket of water outside for the dog and they are in the bucket. How can I get rid of them? -- Alice Meyer, Fort Lauderdale

A. It sounds like you have Bufo toads. If an animal, such as a dog, bites them, the toads secrete a deadly poison. Keep water and food on a low chair or table where the dog can get at it and not the toads. Better yet, water and feed the dog indoors. The toads will move away if there is not a good food supply.

Q. We have 20-foot foxtail palms in our yard. When do they produce seed and how do we propagate them? -- Helen Russette, Hollywood

A. Blooms and seeds should develop within the next two years if the plants are healthy. Using a good draining potting soil, plant ripe seeds in a 1-gallon pot. Place the seeds with the pointy side up just below the soil surface. The pots should be outside under a shade tree and kept somewhat moist. Seeds will germinate in a few months, depending on the time of year.

Q. How can I extend the life of cut areca palm leaves beyond five to six days? -- Jeff Strauss, Fort Lauderdale

A. Dania Beach Florist in Dania Beach recommends Floralife, packets of crystals. These packets usually come with flowers from a florist and sometimes are included with supermarket bouquets.

Q. My 20-year-old staghorn fern has lost half of its leaves and it has white stuff on the leaves. How can I treat this condition? -- Virginia Brown, Boca Raton

A. The pest is probably mealybug. Ferns are very sensitive to chemical sprays. Try Safer's Insecticidial Soap. Follow label directions and spray the entire plant thoroughly, including underneath the leaves. Re-treat in 10 days. Apply in the morning when it is cooler.


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