The Best Time to Transplant a Gardenia

Transplanting Gardenias

• Gardenias are extremely delicate plants, intolerant of the excessive disturbance in transplanting. The root systems are especially sensitive, and care must be taken to avoid disturbing them any more than necessary when planting. Transplant gardenias in spring, once the soil is warm and all danger of frost is past. Although they are cold hardy to approximately 20 degrees Fahrenheit, gardenias will become established more quickly, grow faster and be less susceptible to die off if transplanted into warm soil.

Where to Transplant

• Plant or transplant gardenias into an area that receives full sun to partial shade, with some protection from winds and cold. Gardenias grow best in spots that receive direct sunlight in the mornings and shade in the afternoon. Too much sun will cause browning, whereas too little will result in leggy, unattractive growth. Soil should be moist and well-draining, with a pH on the acidic side, between 5 and 6.5. Avoid planting gardenias near concrete; as acid-loving plants, they can be damaged by the alkalinity of soils in close contact with concrete.

Caring for Transplants

• Keep the soil around gardenias free from weeds by mulching, rather than cultivating or hand pulling. Mechanical weed removal can damage the shallow, delicate root systems and negatively affect the health of the plant. Gardenias require regular watering, especially during dry spells. Keep soil somewhat moist, as variations in water level can kill off newly forming buds and impede blooming. Mulch around the plant to a depth of 2 to 3 inches, to help conserve moisture in the soil.

Fertilizing Transplants

• Begin a fertilization program immediately after transplanting gardenias into their new home, for best growth and blooming. Fertilize two to three times annually, using a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. A complete, slow-release fertilizer labeled for general landscape use is sufficient, in most cases. Any visible nutrient deficiencies, such as yellowing of leaves from lack of iron, can be quickly corrected with an application of liquid fertilizer in a foliar spray. Use fertilizers with a formulation of 15-5-10 or 15-5­-15 for best results.