Gardenias are fragrant flowers that many people love for their unique scent. They are shade-tolerant, resistant to both high and low temperatures, and very easy to grow. However, sometimes gardeners may find that the flower buds turn yellow and fall off. So what causes gardenia flower buds to turn yellow and fall off?
1. Improper watering
Gardenia buds turning yellow and falling off could be due to prolonged lack of water or overwatering. Watering should be determined by the dryness of the soil and the humidity of the air; water only when the soil is dry, and when you do water, water thoroughly, avoiding waterlogging. If you overwater, drain the excess water promptly and place the plant in a well-ventilated area. In severe cases, repot the plant in dry, fresh soil. After removing it from the pot, trim any rotten roots, allow it to dry slightly, and then replant it.
2. Improper lighting
Gardenias exposed to strong direct sunlight or growing in shady environments for extended periods will not receive sufficient nutrients for their flower buds, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. In summer, when ultraviolet radiation is intense, gardenias need shade and should be placed in a cool, shady location. Indoor gardenias require diffused light.
3. Temperature too low
If the ambient temperature is too low, the growth of gardenias will be restricted. You can move the potted plant to a warm place indoors, cover it with a plastic bag to keep it warm, and make a few ventilation holes to improve air circulation. The gardenia will gradually recover and grow.
4. Soil pH
Gardenias prefer loose, fertile, slightly acidic soil. If the soil becomes alkaline, it will hinder the plant's growth. You can use a diluted ferrous sulfate solution to water the potting soil to make it more acidic, which will benefit the growth of leaves and flower buds.
5. Improper fertilization
Gardenia bud drop may also be caused by over-fertilization. During the flowering period, you can apply an appropriate amount of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer to promote leaf growth. However, if the fertilizer concentration is too high or the amount is too much, it will burn the roots and the plant, which is not conducive to plant growth. You can dilute the fertilizer by watering or repot the plant.
