Full sun, a southern exposure, is best. Jasminum
rex can be grown in partial sun; however, some direct sunlight is
beneficial.
Temperature:
For optimum
growing conditions, they need temperatures above 65°,
as they are warm-growing plants. However, short exposure to degrees no
less than 45°
should not harm the plant.
Exception: Jasminum polyanthum
and Jasminum officionale prefer and need cool night temperatures
during the winter, anywhere from 33 to 55 degrees will do. Their need
for cool night is related to flower inducement, which is stimulated b
y night temperatures below 60°.
Humidity:
Preferably 50% or higher; however, they will
tolerate low levels with no harm.
Watering:
Bring soil to a state of visual dryness between
watering. When watering, thoroughly saturate soil until a little water
runs out of the bottom of the pot. Growing in a clay pot will help
maintain a healthy root system.
Fertilizer:
Fertilize once a week with ¼tsp of fertilizer per gallon of water using a balanced,
water-soluble fertilize like a 15-15-15 or a blooming fertilizer like
a 7-9-5. Under cooler winter temperatures and lower light levels, stop
feeding.
Pruning:
Over a growing
season Jasminum polyanthum and Jasminum officinale can
become large vines that won’t fit well in the indoor growing space.
Pruning of the vining stems should be done after the blooming cycle is
complete, usually in late spring. At this time, they can be pruned
severely, from which they quickly re-sprout. Another pruning can be
done only if needed in late summer; from thereon, the vine should be
allowed to grow until buds appear.
Samabacs are upright shrubs;
however, if a compact plant is desired, a periodic trim of the stiff
vining growth is needed. They respond well to pruning, which
encourages thicker growth and increased flower production. It’s best
to prune when in active growth.
Insects and
Disease:
Jasmines have the greatest susceptibility to
spider mites. Attention needs to be given to signs of infestation,
which begin as small light spots the size of a pinprick appearing on
the leaf. The mites are small and are found on the undersides of the
leaves. A magnifier may be needed to see them. Plants that have been
summered outside often come in with residual populations. Spray 2
applications, 1 week apart of Pure Neem Oil diluted with 1-1/2
teaspoons to the quart of water to which a dribble of dishwashing
liquid is added.
