Miniature Gardenia Tree Has White Mealy Bugs And Ants

Question From: S. Vinson - Lebanon, Ohio, United States
Q: My miniature gardenia tree has white mealy bugs and this has ants on it. Should I treat this with neem oil concentrate 70%? Do the leaves need to be dry?

A: Neem oil will work, but you will have to reapply according to directions. Be sure to hit the crotch of stems and leaves and the undersides. The leaves should be dry. Good Luck. If the infection is heavy they will be hard to get rid of. Many pros toss the plants. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy