Question
I have 2 large outdoor gardenia topiaries in southern Florida. In November they went from gorgeous to half dead. The leaves got dark and yellow. They also had lots of wasps landing on it and they became very sticky. The wasps seemed to be creating the problem. Now it's January and it looks like there is some new growth on it, but I am wondering if I should be treating it with something. What type of fertilizer should I be using?Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hi Eliabeth, Sounds like you have black sooty mold which you can wash off with soap and water for a start.  And aphids causing sticky problems.  Get yourself a good insecticidal spray which should correct both problems.    I use Neem as it is organic and does not wash off for longer protection and it builds up.  Make sure it is pure not mixed with other products.  I have never heard of a gardenia topiary before, and would think air circulation may be the problem.  I use Florikans 10-10-17 which is a slow release that last for 6 months and does not pollute. I would also recommend a good watering schedule like 3 1/2 inches of water per week.     kathy