Winterizing Gardenias for Cold Protection

Overview

Gardenias (Gardenia jasminoides, cape jasmine) are evergreen flowering shrubs common in the South, growing 2–6 feet tall and wide with glossy green leaves and fragrant 2–4 inch white blooms. In outdoor growing zones, they need winter protection.

Step 1: Remove Spent Blooms

Deadhead faded flowers. Regular watering after bloom helps plants withstand winter stress.

Step 2: Mulch with Pine Needles

Mound pine needles around the base. If you have pine trees, rake fallen needles to the shrub.

Step 3: Cover with Standard Mulch

Top the pine needles with regular mulch or decaying leaves to prevent them from washing away.