Why plant Frostproof Gardenia?
A frost proof gardenia? Really?! That's right, Frostproof Gardenia is indeed a low-maintenance and frost proof evergreen gardenia that you will fall in love with year in and year out. There is so much to enjoy about this gardenia from the frosty blooms with a lovely scent to the cold-hardy leaves that add a dark green accent to any area. Each bloom has double flowers - more to love and add fragrance to the landscape. An upright shrub, this gardenia will prove to be a great patio container plant or immerse it directly into the landscape to become a new focal point or compliment a plain green shrub or tree.
Gardenias are native to Japan and Southern China where they can be found in areas that do not drop below 60 degrees. The name Gardenia is a homage to the Scottish botanist, Alexander Garden. Frostproof was a chosen variety due to how well this shrub handles late spring frosts without dying off or sustaining heavy damage.
How to use Frostproof Gardenia in the landscape?
Frostproof is a lovely evergreen gardenia with dark green foliage that provides four season interest. Fragrant white flowers open up in the spring and new flowers can be seen opening up all throughout summer. No need to worry about a late spring frost, Frostproof is exactly as its name suggests and does not let a late frost bother it at all.
Planting Zones
Hardiness Zone: 7-11
How To Plant Frostproof Gardenia
Gardenias can be easily to grow in the landscape if the right conditions are provided. Areas known for hotter temperatures should ensure that Frostproof is planted where the afternoon shade is available to protect from the hot sun. Areas with cooler temperatures should place Frostproof where it will receive full sun all day. Pruning should be done after the first flower event or in the late winter when fertilizing. Gardenias do require well-draining soil that is also acidic to help retain the evergreen foliage. Frostproof is frost tolerant and will be ok if a late spring frost occurs.
How To Water
Water twice weekly for the first 3-5 weeks; then water weekly for the remainder of the year until winter. When you water, water slowly and thoroughly. Watering needs may be altered due to extreme weather conditions.
How To Fertilize
Incorporate Elements Starter Plant food granular form into the soil when planting. If planting in spring or summer start fertilizing late fall using Elements Starter Plant food granular form on an annual basis each late year. Continue this for three years to get your plant well established.
How To Prune
While your Gardenia will not require much, prune as needed in late winter.