What Do I Do if My Tiare Gardenia Is Leggy?

Root Rot

• Leggy, uneven growth may be a sign that something is wrong below ground. Root rot develops when soil is saturated and poorly draining. Increased moisture invites fungal growth like Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia or Pythium species. These fungal infestations destroy root systems and undermine their ability to transport water and nutrients to upper portions of the plant. When this occurs, plants, or portions of them, appear wilted and sickly. Since root rot does not uniformly destroy root systems, portions of upper growth may appear healthy while others that are connected to infected portions of the root systems die back. Prevent root rot prior to planting by choosing non-infected plants and placing them in garden areas with well-draining soil. Dig up infected plants, and allow the root systems to dry out. Spray with fungicide, prune back infected areas and plant in a new location.

Pruning

• Improper pruning can also lead to leggy, uneven growth. Encourage numerous, spreading branches while tiare gardenia plants are young. Wait until new shoots are 4 to 6 inches long, and then pinch shoots back in early spring and late summer.

Light Conditions

• Tiare gardenia grow in full to partial shade conditions. Partially shaded garden areas receive approximately four hours of direct sunlight per day or six hours of bright, indirect light. The shrubs do well as understory plantings if the canopy above isn't dense. When plants receive less than adequate light, their branch growth appears straggly and uneven. Site your tiare gardenia in an area with suitable light, and plan for upper story tree growth. Trim back larger shade trees to accommodate your gardenia's needs.

Considerations

• Tiare gardenia prefer slightly acidic soils, so avoid planting them near concrete walkways as these areas tend toward alkaline conditions. Chlorinated and saltwater negatively affect gardenia growth, so do not place them near pools or plant them in coastal areas. Leggy, yellow growth can be caused by over-watering, cool soil temperatures or iron deficiencies. Foliar iron applications relieve chlorosis. Water only when soil is dry to a depth of 6 inches.