Can You Plant Oranges With Gardenias?

Gardenia shrubs thrive with orange trees.

Because orange trees and gardenia shrubs have similar requirements, they make good garden companions, and yes, they can be planted together. Not only are they well matched in their preferred growing conditions, but they harmonize visually. However, the two plants differ in their light requirements. With a little forethought and some good gardening techniques, you can provide the right environment for both, and have fragrant gardenia bushes and attractive orange trees sharing the spotlight in your garden.

Gardenia Shrub and Orange Tree Requirements

Both orange trees and gardenia plants originated in Southeast Asia, and both of these evergreen shrubs thrive in warmer climates and prefer rich, acidic well-drained soil. They are not only well matched in their soil and temperature needs but complement each other aesthetically as well. Both feature glossy dark green leaves and delicate, fragrant white flowers--with the bright orange of the orange tree fruits providing a pleasing accent--and their delicate fragrances blend beautifully. They differ only in their need for sunlight--orange trees, like all citrus trees need full sun, while gardenias need some shade. You can solve this problem by planting your gardenia shrubs under your orange trees, where they will get the filtered light they need.

Planting

Plant the orange tree, then plant the gardenia at its base. To avoid fungal infections that can result from droplets of water on the gardenia's leaves, don't plant them under the orange tree's drip line, which is where rainwater falls from the outermost branches. Ensure good air circulation by not having the gardenia closely encircle the orange tree's stem. The ideal solution is to plant the gardenia in containers under the orange tree, so that they can be repositioned as needed. Mulch both plants well with organic matter to protect the roots and conserve moisture.

Planting Aftercare

Promote deep root establishment by watering the young orange tree and gardenias every few days for the first couple of weeks, then weekly after that, making sure to water thoroughly. Watch for signs of iron deficiency by being on the lookout for pale or yellowing leaves, and treat plants with chelated iron supplements if necessary. Fertilize the orange tree four or five times during the growing season with a liquid fertilizer specially formulated for citrus trees, and use azalea fertilizer monthly on the gardenias. Both orange trees and gardenias benefit from mycorrhizal fungi treatments; these supply the roots with beneficial microorganisms that help the plants absorb water and nutrients.

References

• Garden Guides: How to Plant Orange Trees by Gardenias
• Texas A&M University: Home Fruit Production