Gardenia Bud Drop and Spider Mites: Recovery Plan

Spider Mites, Pam Cooking Spray, and Lost Buds

A gardenia lost 7+ buds, has spider mites, and was sprayed with Pam oil spray.

Immediate Remediation

• Pam damage: Oil clogs leaf pores. Wash with 1 tsp dish soap per quart water; spray thoroughly. Repeat for residual oil. Add ½ cup 70% isopropyl alcohol to mix if needed.
• Spider mites: Soap spray smothers them. Dry air caused infestation.
• Humidity: Use cool-mist humidifier or spray plain water frequently. Keep plant on vinyl cloth.
• Light for buds: Gardenias need 6+ hours morning sun. Indoors, use a 75W-equivalent fluorescent bulb on a 14-hour timer (7 AM–9 PM).
• Water: Keep evenly moist; no standing water in saucer.
• Fertilize: Acid-loving plant food (e.g., Holly Tone) for trace minerals.

New growth is a great sign; recovery is likely.