dying gardenia

[nlagourosdavis]

my husband sent me a gardenia for mothers day, i put it on the porch in all its glory, then noticed a few days later all the leaves had drooped. so i watered it and the next day it was fine. then again i didnt water it for about a week and noticed all the leaves drooped. only this time after watering it and transplanting it to a different pot, almost all the leaves have turned brown, dry, and fallen off. i think i put way too much water in the pot and drowned the poor plant. my question is, is there anything i can do to save this plant. it has sentimental value as my husband sent it to me while he is in iraq!!!

thanks

[pruninggal]

Hi nlagourosdavis,

Yes, plants do need water... especially potted ones. When leaves start to droop on a plant in a container it means that it's in the late stages of wilt. They will often perk up with more water but if they reach a wilting stage a couple times, it struggles to come back. Check the soil by probing with your finger and seeing if it's moist (not soggy). Keep the plant watered as soon as it seems dry but not everyday. Also, check if the pot has holes in the bottom for drainage - if it doesn't the soil will get too soggy and won't dry out properly. Consider transplanting it if this is the case. Let us know where you are located so we can help more,

Pruninggal

[nlagourosdavis]

I am in North Carolina, pretty hot and humid!! The soil is drenched all the way through. We are past wilt, i believe its almost all dead.

:(