Pale Gardenia Leaves

Question

I am located in the north Austin area of TX and the new growth on my 18 month old gardenias is very pale and washed out. I have fertilized and acidified the earth. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Answer 1

It sounds like it may have sunscald. This typically happens to plants that are not acclimated, but can happen to new growth on plants that are in locations that are a bit too sunny for them. Move the plant to a location that is not quite so intense. This article will help with that: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/gardenia/transplanting-gardenia-plants-planting-gardenia-somewhere-new.htm