Gardenia care guide
Gardenia jasminoides
Quick answer
Water your Gardenia when the top 2 cm (0.8 in) of soil feel dry. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days.
Not sure it’s this plant?Check yours with a photo, freeAt a glance
- Light
- Bright light, some sun
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days · summer
Every 11 to 17 days · winter - Climate
- Day 21-24 °C (70–75 °F) / night 15-18 °C (59–64 °F)
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
When and how to water
2 cm (0.8 in)
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 6 to 8 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 11 to 17 days
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Bright light, some sun
Gardenia needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Feeding
Feed your Gardenia every 14 days while it’s actively growing. Use a fertilizer for acid-loving plants at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Humidity60–80%
Aim for 21-24 °C (70–75 °F) by day and 15-18 °C (59–64 °F) at night. Nights at 18 °C (64 °F) or above can hinder flowering. In winter, about 16 °C (61 °F) is preferred, though 10-15 °C (50–59 °F) is tolerated.
It does best at 60–80% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Common problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Full Gardenia toxicity guide →
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a Gardenia?
Water your Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides) when the top 2 cm (0.8 in) of soil feel dry. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
Sources4 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · classification
- Royal Horticultural SocietyLight · watering · humidity · temperature · feeding · compost · repotting · symptoms · pests
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxLight · acidic soil · drainage · container use · whitefly and alkaline-soil problems
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlScientific name · toxic principles · clinical signs for dogs, cats and horses
Last reviewed:
