Jasmine species are grown indoors for their lovely, fragrant flowers. In addition to Jasminum officinale (jasmine), two of the most popular species include Jasminum sambac (Arabian jasmine) and Jasminum polyanthum (climbing jasmine). With proper cultural conditions, jasmine can remain in continuous bloom for months.

Cultural Requirements

Light: Jasmine requires bright light with some direct sunlight each day, in eastern or western exposure.

Watering: Keep soil moist as jasmine can easily wilt. When growth slows in winter, hold back on watering a bit more.

Temperature: Jasminum officinale 'Grandiflorum' blooms best with a night temperature of 55°F or lower. J. sambac prefers a night temperature above 60°F. Day temperatures are best kept cool as well, below 70°F.

Humidity: Jasmine enjoys extra humidity and benefits from daily misting, sitting on a tray of moistened pebbles and/or use of a humidifier.

Feeding: During the growing season, feed once a month with a standard, water soluble fertilizer.

Transplanting: Move J. polyanthum in summer and J. officinale in spring. Jasmines prefer a fertile, well-drained soil consisting of one part sterilized, houseplant, potting soil, one part peat and one part builder's sand or perlite.

Propagation: Take tip cuttings just below a node or heel cuttings (from sideshoots with a small section of main stem attached) in midsummer to fall. Grow cuttings in a pre-moistened, light, soil mix with extra humidity. Repot when rooting has taken place and treat them as mature specimens.

Maintenance: Continue to prune jasmine plants often, as they can be rampant growers.

Special Note: When plants reach an 8 to 10" size pot, provide an annual topdressing of fresh potting soil.

Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service