Saving a Pruned Gardenia: Photoperiod and Temperature for Blooming

Kate's aunt in Long Island pruned gardenia to stalks, keeps it indoors under lamp hoping for spring blooms. Asks if it can be saved.

Research-Based Strategy (The Long Island Gardener)

Gardenias don't go dormant. If stalks have nodes/buds, may survive. Professional growers use photoperiod/temperature manipulation:

• Short days (8 hrs) for 4 weeks promote flower bud initiation.
• Then long days (16 hrs) for 4 weeks.
• Constant 75°F day/night speeds flowering.
• Give 8 hrs light for 4 weeks, then 16 hrs light, all at 75°F.

Also: low pH, high humidity, careful watering (pots dry fast). Pruning damage only time will tell.