Gardenia Leaves Turning Brown

Question

All of a sudden the leaves are turning brown on several branches on a potted gardenia. We have sprayed for white flies. Is there anything else we can do to help this problem? There is new growth everywhere on the plant.

Answer 1

If your gardenias have brown leaves or you notice brown spots on them, this is usually due to:

Poor drainage – Gardenias love to be moist but not soaking wet. Be sure the plant is allowed to drain thoroughly between waterings.
Not enough humidity for indoor plants – Try using a humidifier in the room where you keep your gardenias.
Not enough sunlight – Gardenias need at least eight hours of full sunlight each day.
Pests – Check your plants for pests underneath the leaves, in the soil, and on the stems.
Improper pH – Check your soil pH (it should be 5.0 to 5.5).
Rhizoctonia Leaf Spot (fungal disease) – Leaves infected with this fungal leaf spot disease have tan to brown spots up to 1/4 inch in diameter, usually begins on the older leaves and spreads upward when the plants are watered excessively or from poor air circulation. Diseased leaves should be destroyed and sterilized soil should be used.