Question

gardenia leaves   QUESTION: Hi Dr Steve,

  Several leaves(especially the lower few) of my gardenia
are yellowing. Is it due to chlorosis? Should I supplement
with fertilizer high in nitrogen content? Thanks.

Rgds

ANSWER: Alfredo:

Chlorosis is a term used to describe symptoms of leaf yellowing.  It can be caused by multiple factors- usually root/soil related.

Steve

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you Dr. Steve. Hence how should I remedy the problem?  
I've grown the plant in the same soil for close to a year
though.  

Answer
Alfredo:
I'd first take a look at the roots if they have been in the same container for a year.  Carefully remove plant from pot and see if the roots have filled up the pot.  It they are crowded, repot in larger pot. Check the root color and texture.  If they are black and crumble easily, there may be a root disease.

You can sprinkle a slow release fertilizer like Osmocote on the soil surface, then each time you water, a little fertilizer is released OR you can use something like Peters' 20-20-20 when you water.  It is a water soluble fertilizer that is blue in color.  Both of these product are good all around materials.

Steve