Not everything that is called jasmine is botanically a true jasmine. The name jasmine is commonly used for flowering plants that have a scent like jasmine but don’t necessarily belong to the genus Jasminum. Asiatic jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum) with its fragrant pale yellow flowers is one of them.
Unlike jasmine shrubs and vines, Asiatic jasmine is a sprawling ground cover—it does not climb much, unlike its close cousin, star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides). The dense evergreen foliage that grows close to the ground makes Asiatic jasmine an ideal cover for bare spots around and underneath shrubs and trees, or for cascading down a wall. That it is also fast-growing adds to its appeal as a ground cover. The only caveat is that Asiatic jasmine is an introduced plant, and because it spreads so vigorously and aggressively, it has the potential to become invasive.
While the original species has small, star-shaped flowers in the spring and summer, not all varieties have fragrant flowers but are instead grown for their stunning foliage.
There are also cultivars that dont spread quite as much, which makes them suitable for growing in hanging baskets or planters.
Asian jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum) is a popular evergreen groundcover known for its glossy foliage and fragrant white flowers While relatively easy to grow, proper fertilization is key to keeping your Asian jasmine healthy and thriving Fertilizing at the right time, with the right products, and in the right amounts can make all the difference. Here are the dos and don’ts when it comes to fertilizing your Asian jasmine.
When to Fertilize
Fertilizing your Asian jasmine at the right time is crucial for optimal growth and flowering.
Do Fertilize in Early Spring
Early spring, just as new growth begins, is the best time to fertilize your Asian jasmine. This gives the plant a boost of nutrients right when it needs them most to support vigorous growth after being dormant all winter. Look for signs of new buds and shoots emerging and apply fertilizer then.
Do Fertilize Again in Late Summer
A second application of fertilizer in late summer, around August, will help sustain your Asian jasmine through the fall and prepare it for winter dormancy. Fertilizing in late summer promotes hardier growth before cold weather sets in.
Don’t Fertilize in Winter
Avoid fertilizing Asian jasmine during the winter months when it is dormant. Since the plant has slowed or halted active growth fertilizer will go unused and can potentially build up to toxic levels in the soil.
What to Use for Fertilizer
Picking the right type of fertilizer for your Asian jasmine ensures you are providing nutrients tailored to its needs.
Do Use Balanced Slow-Release Fertilizer
Look for a slow-release fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, such as a 10-10-10 formula. The slow release means the nutrients are available over an extended period, rather than all at once. This prevents nutrient deficiency or toxicity.
Do Use Organic Fertilizers
Organic fertilizers like compost, fish emulsion, worm castings, and manure provide nutrients through natural ingredients. They improve soil health and nourish beneficial soil microbes. Organic options are gentler than chemical fertilizers.
Don’t Use Quick-Release Fertilizers
Avoid quick-release fertilizers which deliver an influx of nutrients all at once. This can burn roots and leaves if overapplied. It can also cause rapid, weak growth as the plant tries to absorb the nutrients too quickly.
Don’t Use High-Nitrogen Fertilizer
While nitrogen promotes leafy growth, too much can cause excessive foliage at the expense of flowers. High nitrogen can also make plants more vulnerable to disease and winter damage. Look for a balanced NPK ratio instead.
Proper Application
Applying fertilizer correctly ensures your Asian jasmine gets the most benefit without risks of burn or toxicity.
Do Apply Evenly Around the Plant
Distribute fertilizer evenly around the base of the plant, a few inches from the stem. Avoid placing fertilizer right next to the stem which can result in burn. Applying evenly encourages uniform nourishment and growth.
Do Water Thoroughly After Application
Always water thoroughly after applying fertilizer to wash it down into the soil. This prevents fertilizer burning leaves and gets the nutrients to plant roots where they are absorbed.
Don’t Overapply
More isn’t always better with fertilizer. Overapplying can create toxic levels of nutrients, so follow package directions carefully. Overfertilization damages roots, leaves, and overall plant health.
Don’t Get Fertilizer on Leaves
Avoid getting fertilizer directly on leaves, as it can burn them. Carefully apply it only to the soil. If any gets on leaves, gently brush it off or rinse with water. Never apply dry fertilizer leaves.
Maintain Proper Feeding
Consistency is important when fertilizing Asian jasmine over time. Sticking to a schedule provides steady nourishment.
Do Fertilize Regularly
Fertilize your Asian jasmine regularly each growing season for sustained nutrition. Early spring and late summer feedings are ideal. Consistent fertilizing prevents nutrient deficiencies.
Don’t Fertilize Too Often
Avoid over-fertilizing by sticking to a twice-a-year schedule. Fertilizing too frequently or with overly high doses can build up excess salts and nutrients to harmful levels.
Do Adjust as Needed
Observe your plant’s response and adjust your fertilizing accordingly. If growth seems weak, try increasing frequency or amounts. If you see fertilizer burn, reduce or spread out applications more. Customize for your conditions.
Don’t Fertilize Dormant Plants
Stop fertilizing two months before your area’s average first frost to allow Asian jasmine to harden off for dormancy. Resume fertilizing when you see new growth in spring. Avoid feeding dormant plants.
Water
Until newly planted Asiatic jasmine are established, the soil needs to be kept consistently moist so they can grow strong roots. Water every three or four days for the first month, and about once a week for another couple of months.
Once the plants are established, they have moderate drought tolerance. Unless there is a dry spell without rain or extreme heat, or if the leaves are wilting, they don’t need watering, which adds to their appeal as a turfgrass alternative.
If you grow Asiatic jasmine for its flowers, regular watering is more important because dry conditions lead to reduced bloom.
Asiatic jasmine in containers needs to be watered at least daily.
Asiatic Jasmine Care
In the American South, you don’t need to look far to find Asiatic jasmine, for good reasons. It requires little maintenance other than an annual pruning. It is drought-tolerant, has no serious pests or diseases, and is salt-tolerant.
If you live in a hot climate, plant Asiatic jasmine in the fall; in moderately warm climates, you can also plant it in the spring.
Planting density depends on your timeline and budget. When planted on 10-inch centers, you’ll have a thick carpet within a year; on 18-inch centers, you might have to wait another year for the plants to fill in. Either way, when grown in suitable conditions, Asiatic jasmine should fill a spot within about two years after planting.
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Best Fertilizer For Jasmine: For The Best Results
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