I have gardenias that are black and brown around the edges- what does this mean?

The Gardenia is in a partly shady yard.The black and brown is around the edges of the leaves.

ok, one of your problems is the fact that you are a little north of the gardenia's normal range. another is the age of your plant. sometimes, they take a while to bloom. and the spots can be a couple of different things. my bet is that your plant should be in more sun, and should be fed every couple of months with fish emulsion, acid fertilizer, or bone meal. I would use half strength until you see the plant picking up, or do what i do and use time release granules.

your plant will need water in dry spells, you should water around the base of the plant. and you will need to mulch. particularly in winter. if you can provide some wind protections during cold spells, that is even better.

i hope this helps, keep us posted, and look for more info from others.

it really depends on the cultivar and the location in tennesee. but generally they are zone 8-9 plants.