How to Grow a Gardenia Plant in Florida

Gardenia shrubs grow well in Florida soil.

Gardenias, which are native to China, are an evergreen shrub with dark green, glossy leaves and fragrant white or yellow flower blossoms. According to the University of Florida, gardenia bushes can grow to be between 2 and 15 feet tall, thus making them a good option for hedges or privacy screens. Although gardenias will thrive in Florida with little care once established, it is important to provide the proper growing conditions to young gardenia plants.

Things You'll Need

• Soil test kit
• Distilled water
• Shovel
• Garden hose
• Mulch
• High acid fertilizer

Instructions

1. Choose a planting location that is in full sun or partial shade to encourage the most blooms on the gardenia plant. In addition, choose an area with good air circulation, such as the corner of a house so that the gardenia's fragrance will fill the yard.

2. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the gardenia pot and deep enough to accommodate the plant's root ball. Place the roots of the gardenia in the hole so that the top of the roots are just slightly above the surface of the ground.

3. Fill in the hole partially with soil and water the soil with a garden hose to remove air pockets. Fill in the remainder of the hole and pack it down firmly. Mound up excess soil in a circle 2 to 3 inches tall around the base of the gardenia. This will help to retain water for the plant.

4. Spread a 3- to 4-inch layer of mulch around the base of the gardenia plant, making sure that no mulch touches the main trunk of the bush.

5. Water the gardenia twice per week with 1 to 2 inches of water each time.

6. Spread a high-acid, granular fertilizer around the base of the gardenia plant three times per year, once in late February to early March, another in midsummer and a final application in late fall. Apply at the rate specified on the fertilizer packaging.

Tips & Warnings

• Gardenias do best in soil with a pH between 5 and 6.5. You can test the soil yourself with a kit purchased from a garden center, or check to see if your local cooperataive extension will perform the test for you. You can amend the soil accordingly if needed.

• Gardenias do not grow well in coastal sections of Florida because the plant is not salt tolerant.

• Do not plant gardenias near concrete such as walkways or driveways.

References

• University of Florida: Growing Gardenias in Florida
• Better Lawns: How to Grow a Gardenia