Abutilon Nabob Problems

Sap-Sucking Insects

• Scale insects and whiteflies infest 'Nabob' to feed on its carbohydrate-rich sap. In large numbers, they cause yellow, distorted foliage that drops prematurely. Look for them clustered on the undersides of the foliage or along the branches and stems. You'll know your plant hosts at least one of them because of honeydew, the sticky, transparent waste the pests excrete while feeding. Honeydew-laden flowering maples attract airborne sooty mold spores that bury their foliage beneath layers of powdery black fungus.

Controlling Scales and Whiteflies

• Scrape minor scale infestations from 'Nabob' with a toothbrush, and dislodge whiteflies with a forceful blast of water. Manage large populations with non-toxic, ready-to-use insecticidal soap. Saturate all the plant's surfaces, and repeat the application every one or two weeks as needed. Insecticidal soap suffocates the insects it reaches without leaving residue harmful to honeybees and other beneficial bugs.

Beetles

• Fuller rose beetles attack 'Nabob' plants growing in the southern and western U.S. Recognizable from their bulging eyes, downward curving snouts and mottled, bark-like coloration, these flightless beetles chew ragged holes in the foliage and flowers. Their yellowish larvae feed on roots, but neither stage of the pest does enough damage to warrant chemical control.

Underwatering

• Like all flowering maples, 'Nabob' won't tolerate underwatering. Slowed growth is the first indication of a drought-stressed plant. If the problem continues, the leaves, flowers and buds all become discolored and the plant eventually dies. To prevent damage, water 'Nabob' as soon as the top 2 inches of soil feel barely moist. If it's already suffering the effects of drought, water it well and give it time to recover. The good news is that most underwatered plants recover within 24 hours after a good drink and remain healthy as long as adequate moisture continues.

Breaking Stems

• Flowering maple's weak, slender stems often snap beneath the weight of their flowers. To keep 'Nabob' bushy and blooming, pinch it back at planting. Outdoors, 'Nabob' may become leggy over time. To restore its form, cut it back by no more than 1/3 after it finishes flowering, Prune each overgrown branch back to an outside node.