Does Arabian Jasmine Grow in the Desert?

Site Selection

• Choosing a suitable planting location is essential to successfully cultivating Arabian jasmine in the desert. Arabian jasmine thrives in sites with full sun exposure and is at home in most desert gardens and home landscapes. A spot with direct sunlight for at least six hours per day ensures healthy growth and an abundance of fragrant blossoms. Selecting a site near a fence, trellis, arbor or pergola takes advantage of Arabian jasmine's attractive, twining form.

Soil Preparation

• Arabian jasmine performs best in light, nutrient-rich and well-draining soil. Desert soil is often too dry and infertile for Arabian jasmine. Enriching the garden bed soil before planting makes Arabian jasmine more comfortable. Cover the planting area's surface with 3 inches of peat moss, 3 inches of well-rotted compost and 1 inch of perlite. Till the organic materials into the soil to a depth of 10 inches. The amendments help conserve soil moisture and provide much-needed nutrients to the roots.

Planting

• The plant's nursery container determines the planting hole's appropriate size. Dig a hole for the Arabian jasmine twice the nursery container's width. The hole' depth should match the container's height allowing the jasmine to be planted at the same level it grew in the nursery. Position the Arabian jasmine as desired and backfill the hole with the amended soil. Tamping down the soil's surface secures the plant in its new location.

Arabian Jasmine Care

• Frequent supplemental irrigation ensures that Arabian jasmine performs well in desert landscapes. Irrigating your Arabian jasmine immediately after planting moistens and settles the soil. Apply as much water as necessary, moistening the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Irrigating the jasmine two to three times per week maintains lightly moisten, well-drained soil. Provide up to 1 inch of water each time you irrigate. Fertilizing Arabian jasmine monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer promotes vigorous blooming. Cold nighttime temperatures damage your plant. Wrap the Arabian jasmine in an overwintering blanket when nighttime temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.