Can gardenia be pruned? When is the best time to prune it?

Gardenia pruning

Gardenia can be pruned twice a year, the first pruning time is from May to July, and the second pruning is around December. Each pruning does not require drastic pruning, just cut off a few pairs of leaves at the top of the branch. If there are residual flowers, remove them together. After pruning, you can spray some disinfectant solution to prevent bacterial infection.

How to prune gardenia

1. Pruning of long branches

Leggy branches mainly appear in summer, when the plants grow vigorously. In order to prevent the plants from growing too tall, the leggy branches at the top of the gardenia need to be shortened. This can control the height of the plant and increase the amount of flowering.

2. Pruning weak branches

The weak branches on the plant generally do not bloom or bloom very few flowers. Leaving them on the plant will waste nutrients, so they should be cut off, along with some messy branches with bad directions and branches that do not develop well in the later stage. This will concentrate nutrients on the growth of healthy plants. The leaf buds that are too dense at the top should also be removed, leaving only a small amount.

3. Thinning flower buds

Leave a few flower buds on each thick branch, leave one on the weak branches, or cut them all off to nourish the growth of healthy flowers and make the flowers grow stronger and more beautiful.

Precautions for pruning gardenia

1. Pay attention to ventilation

Gardenia likes light and is relatively drought-resistant. After pruning, it can be kept in a ventilated outdoor environment, which is conducive to its growth and recovery.

2. Water and fertilizer management

When the soil of the gardenia is completely dry, pay attention to watering to promote its recovery, and try not to water the cut. Also pay attention to fertilizing the gardenia in time, adding a small amount of nutrient solution when fertilizing.