Gardenia Bloom

Question

Last year my Gardenia was beautiful. This year the plant was covered with blooms, but as they started to open, they turned brown and droopy and never really opened up properly–so my plant 5-foot tall plant is covered with brown ugly flowers. I have seen some very small bugs on them, almost too small to see. We are new to this home, so I don’t know the history of the plant.

Answer 1

It is likely thrips. This article will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/controlling-thrips.htm