I have an Azalea and a Gardenia tree. Both had beautiful white flowers but they are all turning brown, spotty at first, which then spreads to the whole flower. The leaves look fine and are still green though. The Azalea is in full shade. The Gardenia Tree in partial shade. I'm wondering if it's a fungus infection. I'm attaching pictures.
This will be Azalea Petal Blight. Here is an article that will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/brown-azalea-blossoms.htm
t can I do to stop this before they die all the way.
Most azalea problems stem from improper watering. They need acidic soil amended with compost but it must be well draining. Water regularly the first year till they are well established. But do not oversaturate the soil.
Do they receive shade in the afternoon? Since you are in the South, they appreciate part shade. Too much sun can cause leaf scorch.
Here are their planting needs and common problems. They should help isolate the problem.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/common-azalea-problems.htm
just planted this spring
Only when the soil dries down to about an inch, and only during the early morning. They should be planted in shade, so sun should not be an issue.
Here is an article that will help you to care for the shrub:
Bought three plants supposed to be azaleas. They have long, bare stems with thick growth on top. Bottom growth developing the same way. Are these really azaleas? Is this growth normal. Plants were put in in April. They were about 2' tall.
Lightly pruning the tips should encourage branching but it is too late in the year to do it now, without sacrificing next spring's blooms (buds forming now). So, wait till after next spring's blooming period to prune.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/pruning-azaleas.htm
Any ideas as to what is going on with my azaleas and weigelas? I cannot find any similar pictures on the internet. Thanks in advance for your help!
Unfortunately, your article did not come through. I am unable to see the damage. This can be caused by a number of issues, from environmental, to pH swings, to viral and fungal infections. Make sure to test your soils for deficiencies and pH swings. These articles will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/soil-ph-plants.htm
Many diseases can be controlled with fungicides. This article will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm
These articles will help you to know what care these plants require:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/weigela/growing-weigela.htm
Any ideas on what is going on? Thanks in advance!
I have answered on the original, but I have something to add, here. Azaleas require a substantial amount of shade, as too much sun will fry them.
I am also seeing sings of fungal infection. I would treat with a fungicide. The link is in the original post's answer.
Azaleas can tolerate full sun, but they sure don't like too much heat. They seem happier getting full sun part of the day or dappled sun all day. Intense heat will mar the flowers and the leaves.
Here's an article with more info:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/azaleas-noteworthy-shrubs-for-any-garden.htm