Aphids

• Aphids are a major problem for hibiscus plants because they drain healthy sap from the leaves. Black ants sometimes bring aphids to hibiscus plants so that they can eat the dew excreted by the aphids.
  
  

Disease

• Aphids brought by ants often carry diseases to the hibiscus. In addition to draining nutrients from the tree, aphids can spread harmful diseases that can further weaken or kill the tree.
  
  

Controlling Ants

• Ant control is one way to help minimize the aphid population. Both pesticides and natural aphid predators like ladybugs can help reduce the harm done to a hibiscus tree.