How to Care for a Gardenia Plant

A gardenia is an evergreen ornamental shrub popular in the South, where the mild winter and warm summer climate is perfect for this plant. One whiff of the beautiful flower’s heady fragrance on a summer’s evening will explain why this temperamental plant is a favorite. Growing gardenias take patience and determination from even an experienced gardener, but many gardeners will say that the effort is worth it.

Things You'll Need

• Container with tray (if grown indoors)
• Pebbles (if grown indoors)
• Shovel or towel
• Acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5
• Peat moss
• Much
• Acidic fertilizer
• Water
• Pruning shears

Instructions

How to Care for a Gardenia Plant

1. Select a location to plant the gardenia. They need moderate temperatures; 68 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. If it is planted indoors, select a window that has full sun, while outdoors gardenias need partial shade, like on a covered porch. Since water can damage leaves, be careful not to plant them under a location that might drip rainwater.

2. Plant gardenias in an acidic soil that has a pH level of 4.5 to 5.5. If growing outdoors, have the soil tested before planting the gardenia. If growing indoors, put some peat moss in the bottom of the pot. Place pebbles in the bottom of the plant tray and then set the container on top. Once planted, put mulch around the base of the plant. All these things will help retain moisture and prevent over-watering.

3. Water gardenias about every other day during the summer. Check to see if they need water by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it’s dry, give the gardenia a thorough watering. Even though they thrive on humidity, don’t mist them; it can cause a leaf fungus. Water inside gardenias by pouring water into the tray. The pebbles will keep the soil from being too wet while providing the moisture and humidity that the gardenias need.

4. Fertilize the gardenias once a month with an acidic fertilizer, beginning in April and stopping in November. They do not require pruning, but if you want to shape the plant, wait until after the blooming season.

5. Gardenias can have numerous problems, from blooms falling off before they open to attracting pests and developing fungus. Check with your local nursery for advice on how to deal with these problems in your area.