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Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants

Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Sunday - September 14, 2008

From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Diseases and Disorders
Title: Insect infestation of plants, dog and home
Answered by: Nan Hampton

QUESTION:

I have plants that some kind of bug is killing them, my fan plam, ficus tree and other plants. The leaves are drying up and falling off. Apparently, they also are infestion my apartment. I feel them crawling up me, in my bed and everywhere. My pour little dog is miserable with them on her too. Help, we're infested!! I've sprayed with pesticeds, usedthe grounded shell and fogged the apartment. I still have them!!! Help me please!

ANSWER:

Our expertise here at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is in the sustainable use and conservation of native wildflowers, plants and landscapes.  While we might try to determine the identification of insects that are associated with these native plants if we have a photograph or description of the insect, I'm afraid we can't be much help if we have neither a description nor a photo.  We certainly have no expertise in identifying or exterminating insect pests infesting you, your dog, or your home.  Mr. Smarty Plants suggests that you contact a pest extermination company that will come to your home and identify the pest and advise you how to deal with it.
 

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