(Gardenia jasminoides 'Jubilation')
Gardenia 'Jubilation' Feeding Instructions
Fertilize Summer-flowering shrubs in Spring (after new growth has begun to emerge), and again, if needed, in late Summer to early Fall with a well-balanced tree and shrub food or an organic plant food. When in dought as to how much fertilizer to apply, follow instructions on the product label.
Gardenia 'Jubilation' Pruning Instructions
This evergreen summer-flowering shrub requires no pruning. However, during any time of year it is okay to remove stray or broken branches, or shear to maintain a neater appearance or encourage another flush of blooms. Hard pruning, to reduce the size of the shrub, should be performed in late Winter; before new foliage has emerged. Hand-pruning, with sharp hand pruners, is recommended. Pruning with electric or gas-powered hedge trimmers can cause unsightly scarring of leaves.
Gardenia 'Jubilation' Pest Instructions
Several insects and diseases might show up on your gardenia. When a black "sooty mold" coats gardenia leaves in Summer or Fall, it is usually due to an infestation of insects such as aphids, mealybugs or whiteflies. These insects leave behind a trail of sticky residue on the leaves. The smut-like, sticky substance does not injure foliage, but can prevent sunlight from reaching the leaf, thereby reducing photosynthesis. In the event your gardenia becomes infested, spray plants 3 times at 10 day intervals with Malathion, or a product containing Neem oil. Make sure to spray the undersides of the leaves. Root rot can be a problem in poorly drained soils.