Gardenia Leaves

Question

There is a white powdery substance at the base of the leaves, and the new leaves are coming out stunted and twisted. Small insects appear to be crawling on the branches. The temperature here in north Florida is in the 90’s. Should I bring the plant inside and use a grow light?

Answer 1

The white powder is powdery mildew. This article will help with that:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/powdery-mildew-homemade-and-organic-remedies.htm

It is hard to say what pest is affecting it (mealybugs, scale, mites, aphids, etc.), but we have found neem oil to be effective against most pests. Here is more information on that: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm