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| Photo Credit: Donna Moramarco |
| Who can resist the intoxicating fragrance of the gardenia? |
Many people are intoxicated by the unmistakable fragrance of gardenias and are awed by the plant’s beautiful blossoms. Gardenia jasminoides is a semitropical beauty that grows best in a warm, humid atmosphere and in an area that offers an abundance of sunlight. In the garden, the plant is hardy in zones 8-10. In all other areas, it’s treated as a houseplant.
No matter where they’re grown, gardenias like acidic, moist, yet well-drained soils. But be careful: The biggest problem gardeners have with gardenias is usually overwatering. Doing so can cause
foliage to yellow; so allow the soil to remain evenly moist, but not saturated. (Never allow the plant to become dry.) For potted houseplants, insert your finger at least 2 inches into the soil to check for wetness. If it feels moist to the touch, do NOT water. Ample humidity is also important. You can increase the amount of available humidity to your indoor gardenias (and other plants) by placing them on a pebble tray. Just fill a tray with clean pebbles, stones or gravel and set your houseplants on top of the pebbles. Keep the area filled with water, but do NOT let your houseplants sit in it.If you live in Zone 7 or colder, your indoor gardenias can enjoy the summer months outside (from June 1 to Sept. 1). Just be sure to locate your plants away from intense, direct sunlight. (Filtered bright light is best.) If you want, sink the pot to the rim in the soil. Be sure to keep up with your watering practices as outlined above!
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