Gardenia tree pests

Question

I have two small gardenia trees they are being attacked by something that looks like salt and pepper on the leaves, and new buds are also sticky. I have tried an organic spray with lecithin but it only seems to distress the plant. It worked for a day or so but then they started drooping and losing leaves. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

It sounds like it is aphids. I personally like to use neem oil on these pests. Here are some articles that will help you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm

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