Question
My two gardenia bushes are about 10 years old. Just recently they started to turn yellow and lose leaves. What can I do?

Answer
Donald,

There are many reasons why the gardenia plants have yellow leaves.  It may simply be the result of the change of seasons.  Gardenia plants will show leaf yellowing and drop in the spring and replace them with new leaves.  Out with the old, in with the new.

Another common cause of yellowing is related to wet soil.  Verify that the gardenia plants have good drainage and are not in standing water.  They do not like soggy soils and will show leaf yellowing and drop if they are unhappy.

You may also want to check your soil pH.  Gardenias prefer acidic soil and will show leaf discoloration if the soil pH is too high.  The plants should be fertilized with an acidic fertilizer, such as one for azaleas and rhododendrons (for acid loving plants).  Many nurseries can perform a soil test for you or you can contact your local county extension office .

Good luck with your plants!