Gardenia species 'Miami Supreme'
Use: Most often used as an accent piece that stands alone. Miami Supreme Gardenia can also be used as a mass or as a larger bedding plant.
Characteristics: Gardenia is a most known for it very fragrant, white flower. They have beautiful, shiny foliage and work well with most landscape styles. There are however, a few drawbacks to Gardenias. They are susceptible to many different pests, most commonly aphids. It is best to plant Gardenias in areas that not only receive sun all day long, but also have plenty of air movement around the plants. This will help keep bug infestations down. Expect to spray Gardenias throughout the year with a systemic insecticide. Gardenias perform best in slightly acidic soils. Unfortunately, most South Florida soils are more alkaline; expect to always be fertilizing your Gardenias.
Trimming: Gardenias will bloom on and off throughout the year but, most profusely in the warmer months. Tip back your plants by hand pruning in the spring or summer just after they have stopped flowering.
Fertilization: Fertilize in March, June and October with Azalea/Camellia blend granular fertilizer to coincide with pruning. Do not apply fertilizer when buds are forming as the boost of nitrogen can cause the buds to drop off.