At a Glance

Gardenias , with their exquisite fragrance and lush foliage , are a prized increase to any garden . However , these tropical sweetheart involve special care during thecold wintertime months . winter gardenia plants is of the essence for their natural selection and continue wellness . Here ’s a comprehensive usher to ensure yourgardenias thrivethrough the wintertime :

1. Determine Your Hardiness Zone

The first step inoverwintering gardeniais to determine your hardiness zone . Gardenias are fearless in USDA zones 8 - 11 . If you live in acolder zona , you will need to takeextra precautionsto protect your flora .

2. Provide Adequate Sunlight

Gardenias take muckle of sunshine , especially during thewinter months . If potential , move your plant to asunny locationwhere they will receive at least six hours of sunlight per daytime .

3. Mulch Heavily

Mulching is essential for overwintering gardenia plants . Spread a thick stratum of mulch , such aspine needlesorshredded barque , around the base of the plant . This will facilitate insulate the roots and protect them from immobilize temperatures .

4. Water Wisely

Gardenias postulate less water during thewinter months . admit the soil to dry out out more or less between waterings . Overwatering can lead to solution rot .

5. Fertilize Sparingly

Fertilizing gardenias during thewinter monthsis not necessary . In fact , over - fertilizing can damage the plants .

6. Protect from Wind

steer candamage gardenia leavesand halt . If possible , aim your plants in asheltered locationor usance windbreaks to protect them from the elements .

7. Consider a Greenhouse or Cold Frame

If you live in a particularlycold climate , you may want to believe winter your gardenias in a greenhouse orcold skeleton . This will furnish them with a morecontrolled environmentand protect them from the abrasive wintertime conditions .

8. Overwintering in Containers

If your gardenias are planted in container , you could move them indoors for the wintertime . pick out a positioning that is bright and coolheaded , with temperature between 45 - 55 degrees Fahrenheit .

9. Overwintering in the Ground

If your gardenia are embed in the ground , you will need to takeextra precautionsto protect them from the cold . In addition tomulching to a great extent , you may also cover the plants with a tarp or burlap .

10. Gradually Transition Back Outdoors

Once the peril of icing has passed , you may gradually transition yourgardenias back outside . initiate by put them in ashaded areafor a few hour each day , andgradually increasethe amount of time they expend outside .

Overwintering Gardenia Tips

Questions You May Have

Q : How do I know if my gardenia has survived the winter?A : In the spring , look for new growth on the flora . If the root word are still light-green and whippy , your gardenia has in all likelihood survived the winter . Q : Can I lop my gardenia in the fall before overwintering?A : It ’s best toavoid pruning gardeniasin the fall . Pruning can encourage raw growth , which can be damage by the insensate winter temperatures . Q : What should I do if mygardenia losesits leave during the winter?A : If yourgardenia losesits leave , do n’t panic . This is acommon occurrenceduring thewinter months . The plant will likely regrow its leaf in the spring .