Common Jasmine is a fantastic choice for container gardening! Growing it in a pot or planter gives you tons of flexibility when it comes to finding that perfect sunny spot. If you’re ready to fill your space with that iconic fragrance, here’s everything you need to know to keep your jasmine happy and thriving.
Choosing the Right Pot for Your Jasmine
When you’re picking out a home for your jasmine, size definitely matters. Jasmine plants are ambitious growers—they develop a lot of long roots, so you’ll need a container that offers plenty of depth and width. Don’t forget to account for a trellis or climbing support! You’ll want enough room to secure the support firmly in the soil without crowding the roots.
Drainage is another biggie. Jasmine hates “wet feet,” so make sure your pot has plenty of drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. For the soil, aim for something loose and nutrient-rich. I like to mix in a little expanded clay, sand, or fine gravel to keep things airy, and remember to feed your plant regularly during the growing season.
The Best Spot for Your Potted Jasmine
Whether it’s in the ground or in a pot, jasmine has some non-negotiable location preferences. It craves light and sun, but it also needs a bit of protection from harsh winds and heavy downpours. Some of my favorite spots for containers include:
- A south-facing balcony or patio (the sunnier, the better!)
- Right by the front door to greet guests with that scent.
- A bright, sunny hallway.
- A sunroom or conservatory.
The best part about container gardening? If your jasmine looks like it’s struggling or not getting enough sun, you can just pick it up and move it to a better neighborhood!
Caring for Your Potted Jasmine
Good news: jasmine isn’t overly fussy. Just keep up with regular watering and use a standard all-purpose fertilizer to keep it fueled. Every two or three years, you’ll want to repot your jasmine into a slightly larger container. This gives the roots more room to stretch out and refreshes the plant with a boost of nutrient-dense soil.
Winterizing Your Potted Jasmine
Common Jasmine isn’t a fan of the cold, so you’ll need to protect it before the first frost hits. The easiest way to do this is to simply move the entire pot indoors to a cool, bright spot for the winter. If you absolutely have to keep your jasmine outdoors in its pot, make sure you provide some serious extra insulation to shield the roots and stems from freezing temperatures.
