Growing, Caring for and Pruning Gardenia

Gardenias are prized for their glossy evergreen foliage and wonderfully fragrant white flowers. Their scent can transform a summer garden, making them particularly attractive near seating areas, paths and entrances.

They do, however, require more specific growing conditions than many hardy shrubs.

Where to plant Gardenias

Gardenias like bright light, warmth and shelter. Give them morning sun or brightfiltered light, with protection from intense afternoon sun where summers are hot.

They need acidic, fertile and well-drained soil.

In cooler climates, container growing can make it much easier to provide suitable conditions and protect the plant during cold weather.

Gardenia care

Keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged.

Gardenias dislike sudden changes in moisture, so regular watering is preferable to allowing the plant to dry completely and then soaking it.

Use an acidic fertiliser during the growing season.

Gardenias also appreciate humidity, particularly when grown under cover.

When to prune Gardenias

Prune after flowering, generally in summer.

Avoid heavy pruning later in the year because you may remove developing flower buds.

How to prune

Remove dead or damaged branches first.

Then shorten excessively long shoots to maintain the desired shape. Make cutsjust above a healthy leaf node or outward-facing bud.

Thin congested growth by removing a few branches at their point of origin rather than simply trimming everything to the same height.

Gardenias generally respond better to light, regular shaping than severe pruning.