Genus of about 200 species of evergreen trees and shrubs from open woodland or savanna in tropical regions of Africa and Asia. Gardenia has very exacting growth requirements and numerous problems develop because of an unfavourable environment. Grow Gardenia in sun during the winter and partial shade in summer. Use an acid soil with a pH between 5 and 6. Keep the soil moist and use an acidifying fertiliser twice monthly from mid-winter to early autumn. Proper temperatures are necessary to force Gardenia into bloom. No flower buds set at night temperatures above 65 F. Keep small plants growing by providing night temperatures above 65 F. A night temperature above 65 F causes drop of flowers buds already formed. Ideal forcing temperatures are 65 to 70 F during the day and 60 to 62 F at night. The flowering response requires 14 hour nights. The plants require high humidity. Repot Gardenia in late winter or early spring.