Hibiscus Stems Are Getting Girdled Below Flowers And Buds

Question From: Greenville, North Carolina, United States
Q: Something is girdling the stem just underneath the flower/bud of my Hibiscus, killing the flower. Any thoughts about what it could be and how to treat?

A: I believe your plant has a disease called Boytrytis, also called gray mold. Clean up any dead foliage and remove infected buds. For less serious blight infections, use a fungicide containing chorothanil as the active ingredient. Follow the directions and repeat every 5 days. Good Luck and Happy Yardening