Question
Hi, my nextdoor neighbor was given a gardenia bonsai as a gf and she doesn't do well with any plant.  she has now passed it to me to see if i can save it.  i am good with outdoor plants but have less experiece with indoor ones.  it's branches are almost completey bare but there is still green wood.  can i cut it back in a attempt to save it?  if so how far?  or is it just a goner?

Thanks,

Amy

Answer
Amy,

The problem is she was trying to grow it as an indoor plant and it is not. Get it outdoors in full sun. Gardenias love the sun and need lots of it. The need to be kept moist but not wet. Do not put a drain tray under it. If it is above 80 degrees it probably needs watered daily. Under that every other day. It needs acidic fertilizer like Miracid or any water soluable fertilizer that says it is for azaleas and gardenias. Mix it at 1/4 strength and use it every time you water the plant. Do not cut it back.

In the fall when you have to bring it indoors when the temps start dropping below 50 at night it needs to be put in the sunniest location in the house. Reduce watering at that time to once every 3 to 4 days and empty the drain tray after you water it. It is not a swamp plant and cannot stand to sit in a drain tray full of water. If you have more guestions write again. Good luck.

Darlene