Georgia Magazine - April 2021 - 33

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'The fragrance
often gives people
a peaceful and
comforting feeling or
can take them back
to a time in their
childhood.'
- Sheri Dorn, extension specialist for
ornamental plants at the University of
Georgia Cooperative Extension
'August Beauty'

last 30 years the single-bloom form has also become popular.
Many of these are dwarf or midsized shrubs, such as 'White
Gem,' 'Kleim's Hardy' and 'Heaven Scent.' They work well
planted near entryways or in containers.
" 'Heaven Scent,' an early summer bloomer, often blossoms
again, perhaps just a little less profusely, " she says. " It also
produces red, yellow and orange seed pods in the fall, creating
additional interest in the landscape. "

COURTESY MONROVIA

COURTESY MONROVIA

Tips for success

'White Gem'

and it's well-suited for planting in a large container, "
Clay says. " Because the blooms are so large, it makes
a wonderful addition to nighttime gardens. The
white blossoms reflect moonlight, and in the night
air the fragrance is even more prominent. "
The variety 'Everblooming' typically grows 4 feet
tall and 3 feet wide.
" Because it's low and dense, 'Everblooming'
is often chosen for smaller spaces, " Clay says. " We
see it frequently grown in raised planters or heavy
ceramic pots near outdoor living spaces so its
amazing fragrance can be enjoyed. "
Double-bloom gardenias are perhaps most
familiar to Southern gardeners. However, over the

Because most of Georgia falls within USDA hardiness
zones 7 and 8, its climate is ideal for growing gardenias. (To find
out what zone your garden is in, visit bit.ly/usdaga.)
" The key is to make sure to site them in the proper
location, " says Kim Toal, Fayette County Extension coordinator.
" Gardenias like part sun, typically [in the] morning, and part
shade and need to be sheltered from too much midday heat.
Until they become established, be sure to adequately water
them at the soil level. Gardenias do not like wet feet, so don't
overwater. "
Consider getting a soil test through your local Cooperative
Extension office before planting. (To find a nearby Extension
office, visit bit.ly/gacoext.) Gardenias prefer slightly acidic
soil; water well and mulch with organic material after planting.
Once plants are established, give them at least an inch of water per week-
more if the weather has been dry.
" Apply a slow-release fertilizer that's formulated for acid-loving plants
in midspring and midsummer, " Clay says. " To moderate the size of the
plant and invigorate it, prune after it has finished blooming. This will also
help improve air circulation in the center of the shrub. "
Because gardenia varieties exhibit such a broad range of sizes and
patterns of growth, they can be grown almost anywhere.
" You really don't need a large yard to enjoy the benefits of gardenias, "
Toal says. " Even if you live in an apartment or condominium, you can grow
gardenias in a container on your deck or balcony. They may require more
frequent watering when planted in containers, but the joys of growing this
fragrant Southern classic are well worth the effort. "
Pamela A. Keene is a freelance writer and Master Gardener living in
Flowery Branch.
www.georgiamagazine.org

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3/10/21 9:48 PM
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Georgia Magazine - April 2021

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