Hi Jeannie, the dark brown edges of the leaves make me think that maybe the plant has received too much water. You're saying "the soil is always moist"? Is it in a pot now? Have you already tried to get it out and see the roots (check if they're healthy, I mean).

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BBMacpie

The roots should be white or yellow, not brown or dark. They do not seem rotten and flabby, but firm and hard and fleshy. If you find the roots rotten you have to cut them until you leave only the healthy ones, using scissors or a knife disinfecting the blades every cut with a flame. Then leave the plant for one day in shade with its roots in open air. The day after you can repot the plant, after having changed the soil. Do NOT water for a day or two. Let me know what you have found!

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BBMacpie

Hi Jeannie,

Please check this link for additional info.

Growing Gardenia

from the same link:

quote:

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Gardenias are fussy plants. They like to be given ample water, ample feeding and ample warmth. The soil they are to be grown in must be acidic, otherwise the leaves turn brown and the buds drop. They need regular treatment with iron and doses of aluminum sulfate to keep the soil acid and keep iron chlorosis from turning the leaves a pale color. Feed them monthly during the growing season with an acid food, one prepared for camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons. Many successful gardeners use Miracle-Gro or Miracid as a foliar spray and as an aid in correcting iron deficiencies.

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