Gardenia Insects on Blooms

I live in Longview, TX (east TX) and have two gardenias in the backyard (about 7 years old) that have begun to bloom for the season. However, this year the blooms are significantly smaller and brownish around the petal edges . . . and the blooms are loaded with some type of very small, white/cream colored insect. They’re kind of rice-shaped, but very small. Any idea of what they might be and what to use to get rid of them? I haven’t noticed them on the leaves or stems, just the petals.

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1 Comment To "Gardenia Insects on Blooms"

#1 Comment By Nikki On 05/20/2011 @ 10:06 am

They could be several bugs, though I am leaning towards thrips as they are only on the blossom. All the bugs it could be are susceptible to an organic insecticide called neem oil. These articles will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/controlling-thrips.htm ^[1]
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm ^[2]

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[1] https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/controlling-thrips.htm: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/controlling-thrips.htm

[2] https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm

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