Why do gardenias leaves turn yellow in the north and what measures can be taken to solve this issue?
Today's focus is to introduce you to the small experience of plant cultivation regarding why gardenia leaves turn yellow in the north and the measures that can be taken to solve this problem. Here is a detailed introduction.
Gardenias are originally from the Yangtze River Valley in China. Their flowers are pure white and fragrant, the leaves are bright and evergreen, making them very popular among the people. However, people who are new to growing gardenias in the north often find them difficult to cultivate and are prone to a "physiological yellowing" phenomenon. After this situation occurs, the growth may slow down, the young leaves may turn yellow and shrink, almost becoming white. In severe cases, brown spots appear on the leaf edges, the branches wither, the leaves burn, and the plant gradually dies. Why does this yellowing disease occur? It is mainly due to the alkaline soil in the north and iron deficiency. Secondly, the temperature conditions are not properly controlled.
Gardenias prefer a warm and humid climate with fertile, well-draining acidic soil. They are quite strict about soil requirements, with the best pH range being 6 to 6.5. Since the soil in the south is acidic and the climate is suitable, gardenias grow well and are easy to cultivate and manage. However, the climate in the north, with cold winters and dry, hot summers, especially the salty soil, is not suitable for gardenia growth, leading to leaf wilting and dropping. Therefore, gardenias in the north need to be grown in containers and moved indoors to overwinter during the winter. During the growing period, it is necessary to frequently water with a solution containing ferrous sulfate and to frequently apply fertilizers containing ferrous sulfate. This can effectively prevent the soil from becoming alkaline and improve the soil's pH. Additionally, proper temperature conditions should be maintained and humidity levels adjusted to ensure good growth of gardenias. The following are the measures for their care:
Move the plants outdoors around Qingming (Tomb Sweeping Day) and place them in a shaded area, avoiding direct sunlight in the middle of the day. Initially, water sparingly, and after the buds start to sprout, apply 2-3 times of diluted, decomposed fertilizer water every 10-15 days. As the temperature increases, gradually increase the amount of fertilizer water. From June to July, apply the fertilizer water every 2-3 days and keep the potting soil moist. During the dog days of summer, water thoroughly every day and spray water on the leaves and surrounding ground in the morning and evening to increase humidity. After autumn, as the weather cools down, gradually reduce the amount of fertilizer and water. Stop fertilizing in September to promote the thickening of branches, creating conditions for gardenias to survive the winter.
Move the plants indoors in the area facing the sun around the time of Frost's Descent. Keep the room temperature between 3-5°C. If the temperature reaches 15°C, ventilate to cool down, as otherwise, it will affect the plant's dormancy and be unfavorable for growth and flowering the following year. In winter, control watering indoors but make sure the soil is thoroughly wet, not just half-watered. Also, every 7 days or so, spray the branches and leaves with warm water while watering, keeping the plant fresh.
The above information about why gardenia leaves turn yellow in the north and the measures that can be taken to solve this issue can be used as a reference for green plant enthusiasts.