Kleims Hardy Gardenia Bushes

[Casutherland]

I planted these back in mid March and it looks like they are about to start blooming, but recently the leaves started yellowing and browning. Anyone know what may be causing this, and how to fix it??

[andy10917]

Did you check the soil expectations for Gardenias before planting? That sounds like Chlorosis, and Chlorosis is a symptom of many mismatches that don't end well.

[Casutherland]

No I didn't, but I purchased them at a local nursery so I figured that the soil should be sufficient if the local nursery was selling them. I have reddish brown clay down here.

[andy10917]

Your friend is Google then - look up the Hardy Gardenia's expectations for soil, nutrients, pH and watering. Gardenias can be very fussy about watering (too much is bad!).

Figure it out ASAP - Chlorosis means the clock is ticking...