With proper care and attention, gardenias can thrive and add beauty and fragrance to any garden.
Find the perfect spot
Gardenias prefer a sunny spot, but not too much direct sunlight. They will perform best in an area that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. When it comes to soil, gardenias love a well-drained, humus-rich acidic soil. You can improve your soil or use a potting mix specifically formulated for acid-loving plants.
Food
When it comes to fertiliser, gardenias should be fertilised and mulched while they are in the growing phase. Choose a fertiliser for acid-loving plants and mulch with woodchip or sawdust varieties to add acid to the soil and help with growth.
Water
Watering is important for gardenias, as they can tolerate dry conditions but need to be watered weekly, especially during extreme heat. However, be careful not to overwater them as this can lead to root rot. If you notice yellow leaves, especially in spring, this may mean your gardenia is a bit thirsty.
Pruning
Pruning gardenias isn't necessary but it can help to keep them looking beautiful. The best time to prune your gardenias is in autumn or immediately after their flowering season. This allows older branches to be trimmed without affecting new bud growth. To keep the flowers pure white, on older gardenias, you can use a cup of water with one tablespoon of vinegar.
Problems
Gardenias are susceptible to a few diseases that can affect their beauty and health. Root rot can occur from excessive watering or poor drainage, causing the plant to wilt and die. To avoid this, move your gardenia to a spot with better drainage. Poor air circulation around the plant can result in powdery mildew, which is a white, fuzzy coating on the leaves and stems that affects new growth. A good pruning to thin out the plant should resolve this issue.
