How to Plant Florida Gardenias
Every Florida gardener, regardless of their region of the state, can grow gardenias. Plants are hardy throughout United States Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 8 through 10. All of the state's gardenias are a cultivar of Gardenia augusta. Plants have glossy, green foliage, producing abundances of white, waxy flowers, which are extremely fragrant. Depending on the cultivar, flowers bloom from early spring through mid-summer and plants grow anywhere from 2 feet to 15 feet tall. Gardenias work well as specimens, in hedges, mixed gardens, containers or by a porch or window for enjoyment of their fragrance. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Remove all weeds and grasses from a planting site that is located in full sun to partial shade and has well-draining soil. Dig, rake, or pull the weeds out by hand. Gardenias will not perform well in consistently wet soils.
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Improve the soil by adding peat moss, manure or compost, working it into the soil approximately 6 to 8 inches. Sandy Florida soil does not retain water and is low on nutrients. Adding organic materials promotes better growth and water retention, according to the University of Florida.
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Dig a hole as deep as the gardenia is presently growing and approximately two times wider. Carefully remove the plant from its container, trying not to disrupt the root ball. Place the plant into the hole.
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Backfill the hole half-way with soil and apply water, allowing it to settle before finishing filling the hole with soil. Be sure not to plant the gardenia any deeper than it was originally growing.
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Form a mound of soil 2 to 3 inches high around the diameter of the planting site. Water has a tendency to run off rather than be absorbed in Florida's sandy soil and the mound holds water in place over the root system.
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Apply approximately 3 inches of mulch around the planting site, keeping it 3 inches away from the trunk. Butting mulch up against gardenia trunks promotes fungus problems, according to the University of Florida.
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Water the gardenia after planting and continue watering two to three times weekly for six weeks, while the plant establishes itself. Water regularly thereafter for the best growth and flower production, especially during periods of hot and dry Florida weather.
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Fertilize three times each year with a blend specific to gardenias. Apply in February or March, mid-summer and in September or October. Central and South Florida gardeners should use a blend containing extra potassium, according to the University of Florida.
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Tips & Warnings
Prune gardenias early in the season to promote fuller plants, control shape and size. Plants pruned after October experience a decrease in springtime blooms.
Treat pest problems, such as aphids or scales, as soon as possible. Use a product safe for gardenias and apply according to the package instructions.
References
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