Popular Flower Types

Boost sunny landscapes with the dazzling blooms of daffodils and golden marguerite. These sun-lovers add rich nectar to gardens while deer and rabbits leave them alone.

Easily grow delicate-looking flowers like dianthus with its spunky spring-through-summer blooms and fragrant foliage. Or choose astilbe for its fern-like foliage that brightens shaded gardens.

The main challenge gardenias pose for gardeners is how unwilling the plant is to adapt to conditions that may not be ideal. Gardenias prefer USDA zones 7 to 11, and if you live in zones higher or lower, you’ll likely find it quite difficult to maintain healthy shrubs. They are very particular plants, usually preferring to be in a sweet spot that isn’t too hot or too cold, too wet or too dry. Gardenias love to have access to full sunlight but will wither away if they get too hot. They prefer high humidity and can benefit from daily misting, but are susceptible to disease and rot if you are not careful. Additionally, if you have dogs and cats in your home and yard, keep in mind that gardenias are considered toxic to pets. The ASPCA reports that the fragrant flower can cause hives, vomiting, and diarrhea in our furry friends. 

Although a difficult and picky plant, gardenias turn our outdoors into an oasis with their stunning florals and rich foliage. If you are determined to cultivate gardenias for yourself, there are a number of things to keep in mind. 

Source: housedigest.com