This practice is known as “deadheading. ” You may need to use hand pruners for thicker stems.
You can also use a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water. Wipe down the blades after cutting any diseased or infected branches, and when moving from one plant to another. If you don’t disinfect your shears, you could accidentally transfer any insects or disease from one branch (or plant) to another.
The oldest branches tend to be the darkest shade of brown and the thickest.
The stem branch is where thinner stems branch off of thicker limbs. The leaf node is the bulge at the end of the leaf stem at the branch.
To get rid of aphids, spray them with water every 2-3 days until they disappear. For whiteflies and spider mites, try applying neem oil or insecticidal soap to your gardenia bush. Use your hands to pick caterpillars off your gardenia bush
