How to grow gardenias to thrive
Let's explore the knowledge about how to grow gardenias well and the correct maintenance methods for gardenias, following the editor's introduction!
Gardenia is a perennial shrub of the Rubiaceae family. Its leaves are evergreen, the branches and leaves are lush, the flowers are pure white and fragrant, and they have high ornamental value. Moreover, gardenias can be used as medicine, with the effects of clearing heat and detoxifying. Gardenias symbolize strength and eternal love, making them a very meaningful flower. Let's see how to maintain it.
1. Suitable Soil
Gardenias prefer acidic soil, and cultivating them in alkaline soil can be harmful to their growth. You can purchase specialized soil for their cultivation, or if you want to mix your own soil, it is recommended to use a mixture of decomposed leaf soil, sandy soil, and garden soil in a ratio of 5:2:3.
2. Appropriate Watering
Gardenias enjoy a humid environment and should be watered when the soil is dry to slightly moist. Especially during their growing period, it is important to keep the soil moist for an extended period. Watering should be done in the morning to avoid doing it at night. When necessary, some water can be sprayed on the leaves to keep them moist.
3. Reasonable Fertilizing
Gardenias require a high level of nutrients and should be fertilized regularly. A full-nutrient organic fertilizer solution is a good choice, but a decomposed cake fertilizer solution can also be used. Fertilize once a week. During the budding stage of gardenias, additional fertilization with 1-2 applications of potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution can be beneficial. Stop fertilizing during the high temperatures of summer and the low temperatures of winter.
4. Appropriate Temperature
The optimal growing temperature for gardenias is 16°C to 18°C. High or low temperatures can be detrimental to their growth. Cooling is needed when temperatures are too high, and insulation is necessary when temperatures are too low.
5. Sufficient Light
Gardenias need ample sunlight to grow properly. Except for the high-temperature period of summer and the dormant period in winter, gardenias should be provided with plenty of sunshine and can be exposed to direct sunlight.
6. Disease and Pest Control
Yellowing disease, leaf spot disease, and scale insects are common diseases and pests of gardenias, especially during the summer flowering period when high temperature and humidity can easily cause diseases and pests. Prompt control is necessary.
7. Appropriate Pruning
Proper pruning of gardenias can promote their growth. Pruning can be done after the flowering period to remove sick, weak, and unhealthy branches.
8. Timely Potting Change
Gardenias grow relatively fast, and to avoid soil compaction, insufficient pot space, and nutrient deficiency in the soil, it is important to change the pot and soil in a timely manner. Generally, this should be done every 2-3 years.
The above is a detailed explanation of how to grow gardenias well and the correct maintenance methods for gardenias, for your reference and suggestions!