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General Information
The stunning highly fragrant flowers of this evergreen shrub contrast nicely with the plant's glossy green leaves. Grows well in containers and raised beds.
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Plant Care Instruction
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Scroll down or click on any month for plant care instructions
- January
- February
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- July
- August
- September
- October
- November
- December
January1. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil, as they are susceptible to root rot. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry when there is no rainfall.2. ProtectTemporarily move potted gardenias next to the house if there is danger of frost.3. Pest/Disease InspectionInspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.4. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.February1. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil, as they are susceptible to root rot. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry when there is no rainfall.2. ProtectTemporarily move potted gardenias next to the house if there is danger of frost.3. Pest/Disease InspectionInspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.4. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.March1. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil, as they are susceptible to root rot. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry when there is no rainfall.2. PrunePrune out dead branches and faded flowers.3. ProtectTemporarily move potted gardenias next to the house if there is danger of frost.4. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth. Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.5. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions. Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.April1. BuyBuy gardenia when in bloom.2. PlantPlant gardenia during warm weather. They require a fast-draining acidic soil high in organic matter.3. FertilizeFeed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.4. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.5. PrunePrune out dead branches and faded flowers.6. MulchTo prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.7. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth. Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.8. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions. Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.9. TransplantTransplant gardenia during warm weather.May1. BuyBuy gardenia when in bloom.2. PlantPlant gardenia during warm weather. They require a fast-draining acidic soil high in organic matter.3. FertilizeFeed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.4. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.5. PrunePrune out dead branches and faded flowers.6. MulchTo prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.7. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth. Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.8. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions. Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.9. TransplantTransplant gardenia during warm weather.June1. BuyBuy gardenia when in bloom.2. PlantPlant gardenia during warm weather. They require a fast-draining acidic soil high in organic matter.3. FertilizeFeed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.4. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.5. PrunePrune out dead branches and faded flowers.6. MulchTo prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.7. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth. Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.8. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions. Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.9. TransplantTransplant gardenia during warm weather.July1. BuyBuy gardenia when in bloom.2. PlantPlant gardenia during warm weather. They require a fast-draining acidic soil high in organic matter.3. FertilizeFeed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.4. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.5. PrunePrune out dead branches and faded flowers.6. MulchTo prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.7. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth. Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.8. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions. Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.9. TransplantTransplant gardenia during warm weather.August1. FertilizeFeed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.2. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.3. PrunePrune out dead branches and faded flowers.4. MulchTo prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.5. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth. Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.6. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions. Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.September1. FertilizeFeed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.2. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.3. PrunePrune out dead branches and faded flowers.4. MulchTo prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.5. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth. Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.6. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions. Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.October1. FertilizeFeed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.2. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.3. MulchTo prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.4. Pest/Disease InspectionCheck leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth. Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.5. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions. Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.November1. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil, as they are susceptible to root rot. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry when there is no rainfall.2. Pest/Disease InspectionInspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.3. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions. Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.December1. WaterGardenias require moist but not soggy soil, as they are susceptible to root rot. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry when there is no rainfall.2. ProtectTemporarily move potted gardenias next to the house if there is danger of frost.3. Pest/Disease InspectionInspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.4. Treat for Pest/DiseaseTreat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions. Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green. -
Buy
When's the best time to buy this plant? When can you buy these from seed (if you can)? When is it usually available? What are things to look for when you're buying it? Or anything other tidbit of information you can share!
April
Buy gardenia when in bloom.
May
Buy gardenia when in bloom.
June
Buy gardenia when in bloom.
July
Buy gardenia when in bloom.
Plant
When's a good time to plant this plant or bulb? Any special planting instructions?
April
Plant gardenia during warm weather. They require a fast-draining acidic soil high in organic matter.
May
Plant gardenia during warm weather. They require a fast-draining acidic soil high in organic matter.
June
Plant gardenia during warm weather. They require a fast-draining acidic soil high in organic matter.
July
Plant gardenia during warm weather. They require a fast-draining acidic soil high in organic matter.
Fertilize
When should you fertilize this plant? Which kind of fertilizer do you recommend? Should you use different fertilizers at different times of year?
April
Feed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.
May
Feed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.
June
Feed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.
July
Feed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.
August
Feed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.
September
Feed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.
October
Feed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving blooming plants.
Water
Is there a time to reduce or increase watering? Any special requirements? Things to avoid during certain times of the year?
January
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil, as they are susceptible to root rot. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry when there is no rainfall.
February
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil, as they are susceptible to root rot. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry when there is no rainfall.
March
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil, as they are susceptible to root rot. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry when there is no rainfall.
April
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.
May
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.
June
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.
July
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.
August
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.
September
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.
October
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.
November
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil, as they are susceptible to root rot. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry when there is no rainfall.
December
Gardenias require moist but not soggy soil, as they are susceptible to root rot. Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry when there is no rainfall.
Prune
When's a good time to prune this plant? How about deadheading, pinching back, trimming or any other grooming? Any special requirements?
March
Prune out dead branches and faded flowers.
April
Prune out dead branches and faded flowers.
May
Prune out dead branches and faded flowers.
June
Prune out dead branches and faded flowers.
July
Prune out dead branches and faded flowers.
August
Prune out dead branches and faded flowers.
September
Prune out dead branches and faded flowers.
Mulch
Does this plant need to be mulched? Are there specific types of Mulch which are better for this plant? How much?
April
To prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.
May
To prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.
June
To prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.
July
To prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.
August
To prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.
September
To prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.
October
To prevent weeds, retain moisture and keep roots cool, mulch around gardenias rather than cultivating, as they are shallow-rooted. Apply a 1- to 2-inch layer of shredded bark.
Protect
When and how should you protect this plant from birds, deer, rabbits? Does this plant need be covered, or wrapped or painted or moved?
January
Temporarily move potted gardenias next to the house if there is danger of frost.
February
Temporarily move potted gardenias next to the house if there is danger of frost.
March
Temporarily move potted gardenias next to the house if there is danger of frost.
December
Temporarily move potted gardenias next to the house if there is danger of frost.
Pest/Disease Inspection
What are the common problems this plant will face and when should you look for them to appear?
January
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.
February
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.
March
Check leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth.
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.April
Check leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth.
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.May
Check leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth.
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.June
Check leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth.
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.July
Check leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth.
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.August
Check leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth.
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.September
Check leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth.
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.October
Check leaves and stems for signs of scale and aphids. Both pests suck plant sap and cause poor growth.
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.November
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.
December
Inspect plant for signs of iron chlorosis, which is indicated by yellow leaves with green leaf veins.
Treat for Pest/Disease
How do you treat the common problems for this plant? What products or concoctions or natural means do you use? Any special requirements?
January
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.
February
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.
March
Treat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions.
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.April
Treat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions.
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.May
Treat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions.
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.June
Treat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions.
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.July
Treat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions.
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.August
Treat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions.
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.September
Treat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions.
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.October
Treat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions.
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.November
Treat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions.
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.December
Treat minor infestations of scale and aphids with a strong spray of water. If trouble persists, treat with light horticultural oil according to package directions.
Treat iron chlorosis with a chelated iron fertilizer every week according to package directions until the leaves re-green.Transplant
When's the best time to dig up and transplant this from one spot to another? (This is different than planting). Any special requirements?
April
Transplant gardenia during warm weather.
May
Transplant gardenia during warm weather.
June
Transplant gardenia during warm weather.
July
Transplant gardenia during warm weather.
Make your own gardening to-do list today!