How to Make a Gardenia Bonsai

Choose a well-drained potting container that has more than one drainage hole at the bottom. Select a pot that has a depth that is slightly larger than the gardenia’s root mass with a width that is about two thirds the diameter of its canopy.

Prepare the gardenia’s container prior to removing it from its original container. Place fine wire mesh across each of the container’s drainage holes to prevent the roots from growing out of the container. Fill the container approximately one third of the way with soil. Use a nutrient-rich soil that is specifically designed for acid-loving plants. Transplant the gardenia quickly to prevent its roots from drying out during the process.

Place the gardenia on a clean, flat surface. Use sharp, sterile shears to remove any spent blooms and ailing foliage. Make flush cuts to promote rapid healing. Thin the interior branches of the densely foliated gardenia to promote air circulation and sunlight throughout its interior. Trim back vigorously growing branches and stems.

Remove your gardenia from its original container and place it on a clean, flat surface. Crumble the excess soil gently from the gardenia’s root mass. Inspect the root system closely but handle carefully, as its fine roots are fragile and easily damaged. Remove only damaged and deadened roots from the gardenia’s root system. Use sharp, sterile pruning shears to complete the pruning.

Place the gardenia in the center of its prepared container and fill the rest of the container with soil. Be sure that all of the gardenia’s fine roots are covered completely with soil, and water the gardenia to settle the soil. Pour tepid water evenly around the base of the plant until the water runs from the drainage holes. Fill the container again with soil, if necessary, to compensate for settling.

Place your newly potted gardenia bonsai in a warm, sunny location that receives at least six to eight hours of full sunlight each day. Avoid locations that experience extreme temperature variations, such as near patio grills and heating vents. Feel free to keep your gardenia bonsai outdoors during the growing season, but bring it indoors before temperatures fall below 50 degrees F, as it is intolerant to cool temperatures.

Irrigate the gardenia bonsai deeply and frequently to maintain a moist, but not saturated, soil environment. Allow only the top layer of soil to dry between each watering to prevent health issues related to over- and underwatering the gardenia.