Question
We have a small Jasmine tree (about 4 ft tall) in a pot.  It has been outside all summer with nice green leaves, but never bloomed.  Recently the leaves started dying, turning brown and falling off.  We have brought it inside but it seems to be getting worse.  Is this normal?  What can we do to try and save the tree?  Thank you.

Answer
Ed,

Jasmines bloom in January-Febuary. Where do you live? Did it get to cold outside? It needs to be taken indoors when the temperature at night starts dropping below 50 degrees. Indoors it needs to sit in a south facing window with the drapes and blinds open all day long.  It is a sun lover and needs as much sun as possible. Too little or too much water can cause the leaves to turn brown and fall off. It needs to be allowed to dry out between waterings but it cannot be dry for long. Overwatering will cause root rot but underwatering will cause it to react with browning and leaf loss. The best way to tell if it needs water of not is to pick it up. If it is too large to pick up just pick up one side and slightly tilt it. If it is heavy it does not need water, if it is light weight water it immediately. Jasmines tend to take a lot of water when they first come in so I suspect you may not be watering it enough. Straighten out the water and it can regrow leaves. It may take a few weeks. Good luck.

Darlene