Gardenia

Question

I planted it last fall, it dropped a lot of leaves over the winter, what should I do to help the plant to form new leaves and buds? Also, do I prune it? I have never has a gardenia before. (I can’t take a picture)

Answer 1

Sometimes gardenia will drop leaves in late winter to make room for new spring leaves. Otherwise, leaf drop is a sign of a stressed plant. It likes acidic soil so use a fertilizer for azaleas and rhododendrons unless your pH is quite low. Gardenia likes consistent moisture, not too dry and not too wet. Soil should be rich loam that has good drainage. And, of course, it doesn’t tolerate cold temperatures. Gently pull back some of the soil being careful not to damage roots. Roots should be white and firm. Root rot turns them brown and mushy. Your gardenia may have suffered transplant shock and this caused leaves to drop. Check the plant carefully for insect pests. Here are gardenia care guidelines. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/gardenia/gardenia-plant.htm