GARDENIA

Botanical Name: Gardenia Jasminoides

Common names: Gardenia jasminoides, Gardenia grandiflora, Tabernaemontana divaricata

Origin: China, Africa

Care

Soil: Use special potting soil for acidophilus from agricultural stores that is enriched with nutrients and contains perlite or pumice. Place a layer of gravel or pebbles 2-3 cm thick at the base of the pot to ensure better water drainage.

Light: For the proper cultivation of gardenia will take into account its place of origin, which has a subtropical climate. This means that in winter it needs heat and in summer it needs a moist atmosphere. So we should cover the pot at low temperatures, while at high temperatures we should lightly sprinkle its leaves with water, to create the right environment. Also, the sun should not fall directly on it, especially at noon.In particular, during the flowering season we avoid too much light, because it causes anthorrhoea (buds fall). Finally, we make sure to keep it in a sheltered location. Ideally, we would say it should be kept under a tree with light foliage, such as a lemon tree, and avoid places under unventilated canopies and near walls.

Water: Water the gardenia twice a week during the spring and autumn and at least every 2 days during the summer. If the gardenia is not watered regularly, its buds may drop before they open. Especially in the summer season, in hot weather conditions, we may need to water the gardenia daily to keep it cool with lush green foliage.

Temperature: The temperature around (20oC) is optimal for the gardenia, at this temperature we have flowering and the buds are formed. Fluctuation in temperature destroys the buds or can inhibit flowering and take longer to bloom.The desired temperature is around (15oC – 30oC) and is ideal for its growth. Below (-70oC) the plant faces significant damage.

Moisture: During the hot summer months, spray the gardenia leaves with water to maintain relative humidity for the plant and to prevent drying and browning on the edges of the leaves.

Fertilizer: Gardenia is particularly demanding in terms of nutrients and needs regular fertilization to maintain its bright green color and to give us many flowers. Add fertilizer to the gardenias once a month, except in the period of August when the temperatures are very high and in January when there is a lot of frost in order not to create a problem for our plant. Prefer special fertilizers for acidophilic plants that enhance the flowering of the gardenia, without increasing the pH of the soil. Gardenia needs iron to grow and maintain its green foliage.

Toxicity: Gardenia is generally considered non-toxic to humans and animals.

Did you know that? Gardenia is the National flower of Pakistan. In France, gardenias are a traditional flower, worn by men as boutonnieres in evening wear.

Flowers by color in Athens Greece