drooping leaves on a gardenia houseplant

Question

I just purchased a gardenia plant. I am growing it inside in a planter. The leaves are drooping and are looking like they are starting to wilt. I found something like a spider web on one of the leaves. Thank you.

Answer 1

Mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites and aphids are common problems for Gardenias. An infestation from any of these pests can result in sooty mold or webbing on leaves. You should try to pinpoint the exact culprit and treat the plant accordingly. Generally, Neem oil is effective.

Here are some articles that may be of help in finding the responsible pest and correcting the issue: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/homemade-aphid-control.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/mealybugs-control.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/control-plant-scale.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/spider-mite-control.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/problems/pests/neem-oil-uses.htm