Jasmine plants usually have well-scented white flowers that grow in clusters. Native to warm tropical areas, jasmine is thought to have originated in the Himalayas in western China. It's fragrance is more strongly released after the sun sets and the buds are surprisingly more fragrant than the flowers. These attractive bushes have shiny green leaves and can grow up to 4.6 metres (15 feet) in height with an average growth of 30 to 60 cm (1 to 2 feet) per year. Caring for your Jasmine is easy with a few simple steps.
Make sure your plant gets plenty of sunlight during the day and partial shade in the afternoons. Jasmine does best with temperatures around 21 degrees C (70F) during the day and as low as 10 degrees C (50F) at night. If daytime temperatures get hotter than 21 degrees C (70F), choose a spot that gets shade for more half the day. In the UK, grow your plant in a container so you can move the plant indoors during the colder months.
Water every day to keep the soil moist. Keep well watered especially during the growing season, from late spring into autumn. You don't need to water as often during the winter. Do not water too much.
Fertilise a couple times of year with all-purpose fertiliser that has an equal amount of phosphorous and potassium, and a lower amount nitrogen. High levels of nitrogen ensure lots of foliage but decreases the amount of flowers. Fertilise when flowering is most abundant in June and July.
Keep the plant trimmed on a regular basis to give the bush an attractive shape. Frequent deadheading and shaping with pruning shears helps control the growth. Heavier pruning should be done immediately after flowering has stopped, usually in late summer or early autumn.
Check for pests frequently. Aphids are a common problem that cause plants to turn yellow and wilt, and there will be a white cottony substance on the leaves. If growing your plant in a container, move it away from other plants if infested. To treat, first wash the leaves with a spray of water and wipe leaves off with a cloth. Spray an insecticidal soap over the plant three to five times a week for a couple weeks.
Keep plants cool in the winter, but bring them inside during the winter months.