Any experts on growing Gardenias out there?

I have two small bushes that I thought were dead and then during a drought of all times, they came back. However, they are still small and rarely bloom. I have tried conventional tactics. Is there a secret to making them grow and bloom beautifully. I LOVE the heavenly aroma.

Any experts on growing Gardenias out there?
We grow and sell alot of gardenias in our nursery in North Carolina.Gardenias thrive in warm areas of the US. They do not tolerate cold below 10 F. They need to be covered if the temps fall below 15 degrees or so to prevent damage to the foliage. gardenia are mot drought tolerant, they need ample water during dry periods. They also do not like wet feet, they need well-drained soil. Don't plant them too deep outside. Use a fertilizer designed for Azaleas and Camellias as gardenias love acidic soils. You could try to boost yours with some liquid fertilizer that contains acid. Don't look for much improvement until it warms up and the spring brings new growth. You may have to trim your gardenias back if they have alot of dead limbs, but I'd wait to see how much they come out in the spring.
Reply:I had a gardenia that I planted in a container on our front porch one year. It LOVED the sunlight that came mid-day and lasted throughout the afternoon, and definitely liked a drink of water every day in hot weather. I fed it with azalea food and it went crazy.





I totally agree with Dr NC's answer -- although I'm not a doctor, and I don't live in NC!
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