How can I prune my potted gardenias?

My gardenia is 50 years old and looks like a large, very dense bush. How to best to prune?

Answer

I expect that your gardenia plant is very over grown by now. If so, you will probably want to do some drastic pruning.


Cut back about a third of the branches down to the trunk. Prune the remaining branches lightly to shape the plant. Make a cut at a 45 degree angle close to a side branch or bud.  Repeat this every year for the next two years. Any dead wood should also be removed. After that prune it lightly to keep the shape.  

The best time to prune is immediately after flowering.


- Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service

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  • Last Updated May 29, 2026
  • Views 1602
  • Answered By Plant Information

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