Pink jasmine care: watering, light and repotting
Also called jasmine, winter jasmine · Jasminum polyanthum · Oleaceae family
7 d in winter
How often to water the jasmine?
Allow about 4 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 7 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
To flower again, it needs a cool (41–54 °F, 5–12 °C), bright autumn. Prune it after flowering.
What light does it need?
The jasmine loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in May, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 3 weeks is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: Stems 3–10 ft (1–3 m).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
Won't flower again
Cause: No cool period. What to do: Put it outside or in a cool sunroom in autumn.
Falling leaves
Cause: Warm, dry air. What to do: Keep it away from heating.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the jasmine?
About every 4 days in spring and summer, and every 7 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the jasmine?
The jasmine loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Should you mist the jasmine?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the jasmine?
Every 2 years, ideally in May, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the jasmine safe?
The jasmine is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. A pet that eats a lot of it may still vomit, so it's best not to let it nibble.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the jasmine needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.