Fun facts about the Gardenia: Cape Jasmine tender evergreen flowering shrub from China, Japan and tropical South Africa which belongs to the family Rubiceae. Forms bushes or trees that have ovate deep green leaves, large white single or double waxy sweet scented flowers. Gardenia is named after Dr. Alexander Garden. An old English name for the Gardenia is the Opera Flower, since it was thought to be the perfect flower to wear with a formal evening dress. The gift of a gardenia has long been proven as the perfect expression of one’s heart.
Caring for your Gardenia: One of the major limitations of gardenias is their great susceptibility to nematodes, which are worm-like microscopic organisms attacking the plant’s root system. Nematodes are so common in our soils that only gardenias that have been grafted on a special rootstock are recommended.
Light: Prefers sun or filtered shade. When brought inside an East window is excellent or a well lighted location.
Temperature: The natural range of range of Gardenias is limited by their tropical heritage but fortunately they lend themselves to container culture. By providing winter protection (bringing them indoors) they may be enjoyed for years in the severest of climates.
Soil: Prefer acidic soil.
Water: Gardenias should never get dried out. Water approximately twice a week. Good drainage is important. Do not let the Gardenia stand in water. When indoor, lightly mist the plant with water.
Fertilization: Gardenias are heavy feeders and need to be fertilized on a regular basis. Plants in the ground should be fertilized in January, June and September with an acid type fertilizer such as Miracid. Plants in containers should usually be fertilized as well.
Pests: Whitefly, aphids, some scale insects and spider mites love gardenias. Control measures should be taken when you find any of these pests present. For sooty mold and aphids, mild soapy water is very effective. Whitefly and spider mites may require alternate treatment.
Pruning: Prune to shape after budding. After the bloom is finished prune down to the next leaf. My mother always told me, “Never leave a hook to hang your hat on!”
Any more questions? Just call us ~ 727-410-9642. Answers are always available.
Caring for your Gardenia: One of the major limitations of gardenias is their great susceptibility to nematodes, which are worm-like microscopic organisms attacking the plant’s root system. Nematodes are so common in our soils that only gardenias that have been grafted on a special rootstock are recommended.
Light: Prefers sun or filtered shade. When brought inside an East window is excellent or a well lighted location.
Temperature: The natural range of range of Gardenias is limited by their tropical heritage but fortunately they lend themselves to container culture. By providing winter protection (bringing them indoors) they may be enjoyed for years in the severest of climates.
Soil: Prefer acidic soil.
Water: Gardenias should never get dried out. Water approximately twice a week. Good drainage is important. Do not let the Gardenia stand in water. When indoor, lightly mist the plant with water.
Fertilization: Gardenias are heavy feeders and need to be fertilized on a regular basis. Plants in the ground should be fertilized in January, June and September with an acid type fertilizer such as Miracid. Plants in containers should usually be fertilized as well.
Pests: Whitefly, aphids, some scale insects and spider mites love gardenias. Control measures should be taken when you find any of these pests present. For sooty mold and aphids, mild soapy water is very effective. Whitefly and spider mites may require alternate treatment.
Pruning: Prune to shape after budding. After the bloom is finished prune down to the next leaf. My mother always told me, “Never leave a hook to hang your hat on!”
Any more questions? Just call us ~ 727-410-9642. Answers are always available.
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