Sooty Mold on Crepe Myrtle & Gardenia: Aphid Control

Black soot on crepe myrtle and gardenia = sooty mold on aphid honeydew. New growth looks normal because aphids prefer tender leaves—once leaves harden, they move on.

Control

1. Systemic soil drench (imidacloprid) in spring—covers all season.
2. Foliar spray (soap, neem, oil) for current infestation—cover undersides.
3. Mold weathers off once honeydew stops.

Gardenia Bud Drop

Also from aphids (and thrips). Same treatment fixes both.

Treat aphids; the black coating disappears on its own.