gardenia bush dropping buds

Question

I just purchased a gardenia bush and have it inside next to a huge window. The buds are dropping and there is a white oily substance on the bush at the joint on some of the stem. It is putting on new leaves but I concerned. Never seen this before. Thanks, Marste

Answer 1

This can happen for a number of reasons. Most likely it is a pest problem. This article will help you determine which may be affecting your plant:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/gardenia/gardenia-flowers-gardenia-buds-falling-off-plant.htm

Treating the plant with neem oil should help. Here is more information on that: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm