Gardenia augusta - Gardenia

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This can be a difficult plant to grow indoors, but it is spectacular with its glossy, deep green leaves and fragrant, creamy, white flowers. Most gardenias have double flowers, and bloom regularly from spring though fall, and sometimes year-round. The secret to growing gardenias indoors is to provide proper night temperatures around 60 degrees F (15.6 C). Plants will not flower if night temperatures go over 65 degrees F (18.3 C). Gardenias need both bright light and cool temperatures. Typical daytime temperatures should range from 65-75 degrees F (18.3-23.9 C). Gardenias also require high humidity and plenty of sunlight, but not searing heat. Bud drop is a common problem caused by dry air, hot temperatures, or a sudden change in environment. Even moving the plant from the store to your home can cause bud drop. If the soil is too wet or too dry, you may experience leaf drop too. Not enough light can prevent flowering. Keep away from drafty areas. Feed every 2 weeks in the spring and summer with half-strength acid fertilizer. Reduce feeding to once a month at full strength acid fertilizer in the fall and winter months. If you have low humidity in your home or office, you will need to increase humidity by either placing a humidifier nearby, or placing bowls of water, or pebble trays filled with water nearby, to evaporate and add water to the air.