Gardenia and Sunlight

Question

We want to get two gardenias, but where we want them the sun is brutal from about 11:30 or 12:30 to about 4 pm.  I usually go out to water the plants and kinda cool them off around 2 pm. If we keep the gardenia moist during the day, could it survive the heat that long?

Answer 1

While in many areas they prefer partial shade, they can thrive in full sun depending on your location (hardiness zone). If your area is prone to very hot conditions during the peak afternoon, your gardenias risk scorching. Also, the area should remain relatively moist. It would probably be best to locate them in an area receiving afternoon shade if conditions in your area are hot and dry. Otherwise, it should be okay to place them in the sun, giving them plenty of moisture.