Caring for Jasmine

Jasmine has moderate water needs. Water regularly during the first year to establish a deep root system, then reduce frequency once settled. In summer, water deeply during prolonged dry spells—once or twice a week is usually sufficient if there's no rain. Avoid waterlogging, especially in winter, as jasmine dislikes sitting in saturated soil. Mulch helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool in hot weather. Feed in March and April as growth resumes. Apply a balanced general-purpose fertiliser (such as blood, fish and bone) or a slow-release granular feed around the base, following packet rates. Alternatively, use a liquid tomato feed every fortnight from late spring through summer to promote flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, which encourage leafy growth at the expense of blooms. Jasmine is hardy in zone 7a and above, but in colder gardens or exposed sites it may suffer frost damage to shoot tips in harsh winters. In zone 7, consider planting in a sheltered spot against a south- or west-facing wall. Mulch the root zone in late autumn for extra insulation. Top growth may die back in severe cold but usually regenerates from the base in spring. Common pests include aphids, which cluster on soft new growth in spring and summer—hose them off or use an insecticidal soap if necessary. Jasmine is generally disease-resistant, but poor drainage or overhead watering can encourage fungal issues such as powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation through regular pruning and avoid wetting foliage late in the day.