Ask Extension :: The buds on my gardenia frequently drop before opening, and those that do open discolor quickly. What is happening?

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The buds on my gardenia frequently drop before opening, and those that do open discolor quickly. What is happening?

Be on the look-out for small black insects called thrips, which are found in and around the buds and can cause the symptoms you describe. If they are noticed, treat the shrub with a systemic insecticide, such as one containing acephate or imidacloprid

Additional Resource

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/MG336

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/MG/MG32700.pdf