re: Planting 7gallon Gardenias- August Beauties

Heavy clay based soils are often alkaline but years of organic additions will help to lower pH. But there is no reason to guess. Just order this kit and get some solid numbers. LINK. Of course sample soil from the area the gardenias will be planted.

If the soil pH is higher than ideal for gardenias the results should come with a recommendation on how to decrease it to an optimum level for gardenias. Generally the addition of elemental sulfur, aluminum sulfate (alum), using acidic fertilizers, liberal additions of organic matter, etc. Your UGA county cooperative extension agent can guide you.

Do you grow azaleas, and if so to they grow well? They also thrive in acidic soils.