Why do gardenia buds fall off before opening?

Every June and July, gardenias usually enter a season of blooming. However, many people have found that the buds of their gardenias not only do not bloom, but also fall off. So what is going on? Let’s learn more about it below.

1. Environmental changes

If the gardenia has just been moved to a new growing environment, such as being brought home from a florist, the sudden change in environment may cause the flower buds to fall off. Gardenias require an acclimatization period, during which the soil should be kept moist and placed in diffuse light.

2. Lack of light

Although gardenia has a certain degree of shade tolerance, it has a high demand for light during its flowering period. Only with sufficient light can photosynthesis be carried out better and the flower buds can open normally. If it is placed in a cool place for a long time, the flower buds will be poorly developed due to lack of light and will fall off.

3. Unsuitable soil

Gardenia prefers slightly acidic soil, so the pH value in the soil should be kept between 4.0 and 6.5. If the soil is alkaline, gardenia will have difficulty blooming or the flower buds will fall off.

4. Improper watering

Improper watering is also a common cause of flower bud drop. Too much or too little water will affect the normal metabolism of the plant, thereby affecting the development of flower buds. The frequency and amount of watering should be adjusted according to the growth cycle and seasonal changes of gardenia to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

5. Improper fertilization

Improper fertilization of gardenias may cause the flower buds to fall off before they open. For example, excessive application of nitrogen fertilizer will cause new buds to sprout and branches and leaves to grow, or a lack of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers will also lead to the failure of flower buds to differentiate. Regular fertilization, especially before and after flowering, can help provide necessary nutrients.

6. Pests and diseases

Check the plants carefully for fungal damage such as powdery mildew and black spots, and also pay attention to damage such as red spider mites and scale insects. If found, treat them accordingly. Otherwise, the gardenia buds will easily fall off after appearing, and the flowers will be few or not blooming.

In general, the falling of gardenia buds before opening may be the result of the combined action of multiple factors. By comprehensively applying the above measures, we can effectively solve this problem and allow gardenias to grow healthily and bloom beautiful flowers.