Overview

Jasmine is a popular tropical plant because of the sweet, distinctive fragrance of the buds and flowers. A true jasmine is a bushy shrub or climbing vine with white or, less frequently, yellow flowers that release their scent at night. Some plants will flower about six weeks after spring planting, while others will flower in fall or winter. Some species of jasmine will bloom in the middle of the winter if grown in warm areas or indoors. Being a tropical plant, jasmine will not tolerate frost and must be brought indoors at first frost warning.

Step 1

Water the jasmine bush once a week during spring and twice a week during summer. Well draining soil is essential; never leave the plant in sitting water. Cut back watering to once a week in the fall and give the plant very little water during the winter.

Step 2

Pinch back growing tips to ensure a bushier growth and more flowers. Prune from spring through July to shape the plant, if needed.

Step 3

Apply a layer of leaf mold to the soil over the roots in the summer. Water the leaf mold to leech it into the soil. This will keep the soil draining well and help to keep the roots healthy.

Step 4

Apply a 15-30-15 fertilizer in spring and again in late summer. Follow the manufacturer's directions on the amount to apply.

Step 5

Dig the plant up before the first frost and bring it indoors. Keep it where the temperature in between 60 and 65 degrees F and in bright filtered light. Water when the soil feels dry.

Step 6

Place the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Do not allow the container to sit in the water but on top of the pebbles. This will keep the humidity up around the plant during times when central heating dries out the air indoors.

Step 7

Plant the jasmine back outdoors when the temperature reaches a steady 60 degrees F. Place the plant in the shade and move into the sun a little at a time to prevent burn.