Gardenia Tree with mites and fungus? - Ask Extension
Hello,
As you can see from the attached pic. My poor gardenia tree has I think mites and fungus. Please help! All the buds fell, so we sprayed with th...
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Gardenia Tree with mites and fungus? #421216
Asked August 14, 2017, 4:30 PM EDT
Hello,
As you can see from the attached pic. My poor gardenia tree has I think mites and fungus. Please help! All the buds fell, so we sprayed with the same Bayern I use for my roses that according to the instructions would work but is getting worse. This is an inside plant.
Thank you so much!
Frederick County Maryland
Expert Response
That is quite an infestation!
We would suggest a two-pronged approach.
First, you want to remove and squish as many of the visible mealy bugs as you can. You can use a soft toothbrush or toothpick and a damp cloth, followed up by a good spray of water. Be sure to look deeply into cracks and under leaves.
We then would try using a granular systemic insecticide labeled for houseplants in the potting mix.
Leave the plant outside in bright light (but not in direct sun). Beneficial insects outdoors can help keep pests in check.
Are there water drainage holes in that container?
There need to be. Water enough at each watering that the entire soil mixture is moist and drains out into a saucer filled with pebbles beneath. Allow the top half-inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
It can stay outdoors until night temps are in the mid- 50's, as this is when they set buds for blooms indoors later.
cm
We would suggest a two-pronged approach.
First, you want to remove and squish as many of the visible mealy bugs as you can. You can use a soft toothbrush or toothpick and a damp cloth, followed up by a good spray of water. Be sure to look deeply into cracks and under leaves.
We then would try using a granular systemic insecticide labeled for houseplants in the potting mix.
Leave the plant outside in bright light (but not in direct sun). Beneficial insects outdoors can help keep pests in check.
Are there water drainage holes in that container?
There need to be. Water enough at each watering that the entire soil mixture is moist and drains out into a saucer filled with pebbles beneath. Allow the top half-inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
It can stay outdoors until night temps are in the mid- 50's, as this is when they set buds for blooms indoors later.
cm
