Star jasmine is known as a beautiful flower with exuberant foliage and aromatic fragrance, and is very popular in New Zealand gardens to bring a certain sophistication and appeal of smell. Grown against a trellis, cascading over walls, or as ground cover it is both visually pleasing and of reasonable care. In order to maximize on the potential of this plant, it can aid to know how it prefers to grow, as well as how one can approach its nurturing during the different seasons.

The key is buying healthy plants from a good nursery. It is convenient to get healthy star jasmine from reliable online nursery – The Plant Company, where you can choose the widest selection of plants for your NZ garden. They also offer professional advice and suggestions about the successful establishment of these ornamental plants.

Choose the Right Location 

The best thing is a sunny, protected place. Star jasmine needs full exposure to sun or light shade and should be sheltered against strong wind especially amongst young plants. Whereas it can be planted where things are not so hot, it might grow as a slower plant or even demand additional protection in colder areas of the country.

In case of being a climber, it should be supported with great support like a trellis or pergola. In ground cover use, plant it where you would like it to spread.

Soil & Planting Tips 

The healthy growth requires well-drained compost-amended soil. Star jasmine will not thrive in a wet soil, hence when planting in a heavy clay soil, it could be increased by elevating the bed or adding sand and organic matter to the soil to enhance drainage.

When planting make the hole twice as far around as the root ball. Space plants 1 to 1.5metres apart so that their mature spread is possible. Once you have planted, use soil depth watering and mulch to keep the moisture on the soil and to keep away weeds.

Watering and Feeding 

Star jasmine is drought resistant to some degree once its roots are established, though young plants do better when they are regularly watered. Occasional deep watering should maintain the plant in a healthy state and flowering throughout dry summers.

In spring, slow-release fertilizer can be used in order to promote vigorous growth and flowering. When grown in containers, a thinner fertilizer in liquid form should be fed more regularly to enable constant growth.

Training and Pruning 

A tidy shape can be achieved with regular pruning which will stimulate dense growth. It should be pruned after flowering late summer or early autumn. Cut down the tangled or dead or spoiled growth. Gently train the vines on the structure that you want to cover and make sure you tie the vines with garden ties or light strand as necessary.

Pests and Winter Care 

Star jasmine is usually pest-free and there may be other minor problems with aphid or scale insects. They are controlled by the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil.  Cover the young plants with frost cloth to prevent freezing in colder locations. Mature plants can withstand a weak frost, but when it lasts long it can damage leaves.

Conclusion 

Star jasmine has fantastic foliage and fragrance which can be continuously enjoyed when carefully choosing a location, taking proper care of your soil, and keeping up with seasonal maintenance. It makes a great supplement to any NZ garden and with reputable nursery supply, one can plant with confidence even with the first planting.