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Reviving a Declining Jasmine Tree: Light, Temperature, and Pruning

A Lakeview jasmine dropping leaves rapidly in spring/summer suffers from multiple stressors: insufficient pruning, excessive heat (78°F), irregular watering, and likely spider mites. Cloudy weather compounded the light deficit.

Complete Care Regimen

Light: Bright indirect; east window ideal; protect from midday sun
Temperature: 60–75°F optimal; tolerates 50–85°F
Water: Thorough soak when top ½" is dry; never lapse
Pot: Keep rootbound—jasmine blooms best when crowded
Fertilizer: 1-2-1 ratio at half strength only during active growth
Pests: Check leaf undersides weekly for spider mites; spray soap solution
Pruning: Cut back by half after winter bloom; pinch new growth until August
Bloom trigger: October–December: cool nights (40–50°F), total darkness, dry soil, bright days

Propagation

Root tip cuttings in peat/perlite under plastic tent any time; spring is best. High humidity and warmth (65°F+) required.

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