How to Care for Gardenia Plants in Freezing Weather

Gardenias are large tropical shrubs, successful in hot, humid areas of the South and West Coast. These plants produce dark, leathery green leaves and bright white flowers, and bloom best with moderate nights and warm, sunny days. The shrubs don't thrive in freezing temperatures, though, and require some careful fall and winter preparations. Keep gardenias healthy through the summer and take some important steps in the fall for best winter survival.

Pruning shears
Mulch/soil
Sheets
Lights/lamps

Instructions

- 1
  Water the gardenias frequently through summer and into fall. These plants do best with 2 to 3 inches of water every week and survive freezing weather best with healthy growth and root systems. Prune the shrubs in fall to eliminate dead or diseases wood, which sucks plant energy during the winter.
- 2
  Lay 6 to 8 inches of mulch or topsoil over the ground around each gardenia, and mound the mulch up the trunk of the shrub. This mulch keeps the ground from freezing, and so keeps plant roots warm and safe.
- 3
  Water the gardenias in the morning before nights with freezing temperatures. Water keeps roots thawed and healthy while morning waterings allow the plants to dry before nightfall.
- 4
  Cover the gardenias with sheets or blankets at nightfall to protect them through the night. Remove the coverings in the morning for sun and air.
- 5
  Put free-standing lamps under the coverings at night to warm the plants at temperatures under 20 degrees F. Use standard indoor lamps or Christmas lights, and pull the coverings all the way tot the ground to keep heat from escaping.

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