Growing the Fragrant Jasmine Flower
Jasminum polyanthum, or simply jasmine for short, is a highly fragrant evergreen plant with multi-purpose use. The flowers lend fragrance and exotic beauty to any garden or landscape setting. The petals are often used to make into essential oils or teas, or as lush flavorings for certain dishes. Jasmine is considered a native of China's Himalaya mountains, and has made its way steadily around the world on the strength of its beauty and exotic scent. Follow these tips to plant, grow and care for the fragrant jasmine flower in your own home garden or landscape setting.
Preparing to Plant Fragrant Jasmine Flowers
There are many different varietals of jasmine flowers, so care must be taken to consult the specific care requirements of the varietal you are installing. If necessary, it can be helpful to consult a local gardening expert to determine which varietals are likely to fare better in your setting and climate. In general, jasmine flowers will prefer full to partial sunlight and grows readily in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 7 through 9. For best results, jasmine plants should be planted in cooler areas with temperatures around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants exposed to extreme heat will likely fail to blossom.
Growing and Caring for Fragrant Jasmine Flowers
As jasmine flowers grow, they will need more water. At maturity, jasmine flowers are drought tolerant. Jasmine is a heavy feeder as it grows and will appreciate fertilization once to twice monthly as it grows. Once jasmine plants are established, pruning can be done as needed for light maintenance but all heavy maintenance pruning should be completed by the start of August. Jasmine plants require soil that is on the dry side so moderate watering should be done daily as needed. Adding a water tray beneath indoor jasmine can also assist the plant to monitor its own hydration.
