Wintering Gardenias in Ground - Ask Extension
Working to winter my gardenias in the ground. Mounded topsoil/mulch which is very close to the soil in the pots of the plants up against the but not a...
Knowledgebase
Wintering Gardenias in Ground #922039
Asked November 16, 2025, 9:12 PM EST
Working to winter my gardenias in the ground. Mounded topsoil/mulch which is very close to the soil in the pots of the plants up against the but not against the trunk. Made a dome frost cloth from Frost Shield greenscapesinc.net Plan on putting the cloth on during snow and freezing conditions. Thank you for your help.
Hamilton County Ohio
Expert Response
Hi Tom,
I'm not sure if you'd sent a question but in Ohio, it's generally recommended to bring gardenias indoors.
However, the steps you are taking are correct: mulching heavily around the base to help insulate the roots and using a frost blanket. Might I say that is one cool looking dome!
Your gardenia plant is semi-dormant during the winter months so it does not need a lot of watering. Make sure the soil doesn't completely dry out by testing the moisture level. Gardenias are especially sensitive to wet feet in the winter and should not be overwatered.
Your gardenia looks great now, so I hope all of your care pays off next spring!
I'm not sure if you'd sent a question but in Ohio, it's generally recommended to bring gardenias indoors.
However, the steps you are taking are correct: mulching heavily around the base to help insulate the roots and using a frost blanket. Might I say that is one cool looking dome!
Your gardenia plant is semi-dormant during the winter months so it does not need a lot of watering. Make sure the soil doesn't completely dry out by testing the moisture level. Gardenias are especially sensitive to wet feet in the winter and should not be overwatered.
Your gardenia looks great now, so I hope all of your care pays off next spring!
Thank you. Your expertise is wonderful.
I have six plants indoors, all cuttings under a grow lamp. Keep your fingers crossed. Four of them are hardened gardenias from Oregon.
