6" gardenia braid

Set the potted gardenia tree in an indoor area that receives full sunlight. Place the tree in a partially shaded outdoor location from spring through early fall.

Monitor the soil moisture and water the plant when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Avoid letting the gardenia tree's container sit in water, to prevent root rot.

Set the gardenia's container on a tray filled with stones and water to increase humidity around the plant. Verify the container is above the water line in the tray so there is no standing water around the drainage holes. To prevent fungal disease, avoid spraying the tree leaves with water.

Apply an acid fertilizer to the soil each month during the growing season, generally April through November. Follow the package application rate based on the size of tree and growing container. Refrain from applying fertilizer during the winter months.

Prune branches in early spring to shape the tree before the growing season begins, using sharp pruning clippers. Clip off flower blossoms when they begin to dry and fade, to promote additional flower production.