I got a Gardenia Plant as a present and it was full of flowers. They all slowly died and now I can’t get the plant to bloom again. What should I do? Thanks!
Hi Lucy,
Gardenia Plant
The key to successfully growing a Gardenia Plant inside is to try to mimic that outdoor environment as closely as possible. Although it is quite a challenge and an accomplishment to grow a Gardenia Plant indoors, it is a flowering plant like none other. The jasmine fragrance of a Gardenia Plant’s flowers has inspired hundreds of perfumes. Gardenia Plants will not bloom unless all of their light, water, fertilizer, and soil requirements are met. On top of that, in order for Gardenia buds to set, the nighttime temperatures should be around 55 degrees. Here are some care tips that might help.
Light: A Gardenia Plant requires very bright light for at least 6-8 hours a day. Be prepared to move your Gardenia Plant to different locations as the seasons change. Grow lights may be necessary if there is not enough natural light to help your Gardenia Plant thrive.
Water: Gardenia Plants need to be watered very carefully. Allow the top 2-3 inches of the soil to dry out before watering. Over-watering a Gardenia Plant causes root rot, brown spots on leaves, and buds not to open. Under-watering a Gardenia Plant results in green leaves falling off.
Fertilizer: Fertilize a Gardenia Plant every two weeks when it is actively growing in the spring and summer only. Gardenia Plants like a plant food that is specially made for acid loving plants. Dilute the fertilizer to 1/2 the recommended strength. Reduce how often you feed you Gardenia Plants to monthly in the fall and winter.
Temperature: The correct temperature for a Gardenia Plant is extremely important. Ideal temperatures for Gardenia Plants should be 65-70 degrees during the day and 55-65 degrees at night. Cool night temperatures are essential for the buds to set. Gardenia buds drop off if temperatures go above 70 degrees. High humidity is also a plus.
