Okay, so I’ve been wanting to add a bit more oomph to my little patio garden, and I’ve always loved the look and smell of gardenias. I decided to go for it and get a gardenia standard tree – you know, the ones that look like lollipops? Here’s how it all went down.
The Hunt
First, I hit up my local nurseries. I wanted to see the trees in person, check their leaves, and make sure they looked healthy. I found a few options, but some looked a little sad, with yellowing leaves. I ended up finding a beauty at a nursery a bit further out – it was a bit of a drive, but worth it!
Bringing It Home
Getting this thing home was a bit of a challenge. I have a small car, so I had to fold down the back seats and carefully maneuver the tree in. Thankfully, the nursery folks helped me wrap it up to protect the branches. I drove super slow on the way back, praying I wouldn’t hit any potholes!
Potting Time
I already had a large pot picked out – a nice, sturdy terracotta one. I made sure it had good drainage holes because gardenias don’t like soggy feet.
- I added a layer of rocks at the bottom for extra drainage.
- I used a good quality potting mix specifically for acid-loving plants. Gardenias love acidic soil.
- I carefully removed this tree from plastic pot, loosen the roots a bit.
- I placed it in the center of the new pot, and make sure planting at same depth in the pot.
- I slowly filled in the sides with the potting mix, gently tamping it down.
Watering and Sun
After potting, I gave it a good, deep watering until water drained out the bottom. I found a spot on my patio that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. I heard gardenias like bright, indirect light, and too much direct sun can scorch their leaves. I’ve been watering it regularly, checking the soil to make sure it’s moist but not soggy.
The Waiting Game
Now, it’s just a matter of waiting for those beautiful, fragrant blooms! I’ve been giving it some fertilizer for acid-loving plants every few weeks. I’m also keeping an eye out for any pests – so far, so good! I am keeping my fingers crossed I see some buds soon, It’s been a bit of work, but I’m already loving the way it looks. I’ll update you guys when I finally get those amazing gardenia flowers!
