What if gardenia doesn't grow new leaves?
As an aromatic evergreen shrub, Gardenia jasminoides L. is a common conservation problem with stagnant growth of new leaves. When it is found that the plant has not sprouted for a long time, systematic investigation should be carried out from multiple dimensions such as root repair, environmental regulation and nutrient supply. This article helps you pinpoint the root cause of your problem through a four-dimensional solution. Countermeasures for preventing gardenia from growing new leaves Root regulation and maintenance Method Soil moisture needs to be maintained in a "moist but not wet" state. It is recommended to use the "bamboo stick detection method": insert the bamboo stick into the pot soil for 2 hours and then pull it out. If the moisture level of the bamboo stick exceeds 1/3, delay watering. Keep the basin soil slightly dry during the dormant period (winter), and replenish water is needed when the surface soil is 1 cm dry during the growth period (spring and summer). Light intensity adjustment guidelines A 75% sunshade net should be set up during the relaxation period after transplantation, and the daily light duration should be controlled at 4-6 hours. Mature plants can use the "stepped light filling method": full sunshine before 10 a.m., shade at noon, and scattered light is restored after 3 p.m. The light intensity is recommended to remain in the range of 8000-12000lux. Nutrient replenishment schedule Before new leaves germinate, use a 1000-fold diluted seaweed essence solution to spray them on the leaves, once every 10 days. After root recovery, water-soluble fertilizer with a ratio of "3-1-2" was applied, and the EC value was controlled at 1.2-1.8mS/cm. Pay special attention to magnesium supplementation and use magnesium sulfate solution (2 g/L) to irrigate roots every month. The micro-environment optimization plan recommends setting up a three-dimensional ventilation system: a breathable ceramsite cushion is used at the bottom, a circulating fan is equipped in the middle layer (wind speed ≤1m/s), and natural air circulation is maintained at the top. Humidity management adopts the "dry-wet alternating method": maintain 60% humidity during the day and increase it to 75% at night to promote stomata opening.
Through systematic maintenance adjustments and regular observation and records (it is recommended to make maintenance logs), new buds can usually germinate in 2-3 growth cycles. Under special circumstances, a rooting agent (IBA 500ppm is recommended) can be used for root-promoting treatment, but the concentration standard must be strictly followed.