Fertiliser for Jasmine: How to Feed Star Jasmine and Other Varieties for Lush, Fragrant Growth

Jasmine is one of the most loved ornamental plants in Australian gardens. Known for its sweet fragrance and climbing habit, jasmine thrives with the right feeding, soil, and light. But many growers find that without proper fertilisation, their jasmine produces weak blooms or excessive leafy growth. This guide explores when to fertilise jasmine, what fertiliser to use, and how to maximise flowering for star jasmine and other common varieties.

1. Jasmine Growth Needs: Light, Soil and Climate

Light: Jasmine grows best in full sun to partial shade. In hotter zones, filtered afternoon light helps reduce leaf scorch.
Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0) with good organic content. Raised beds are ideal for compacted or clay soils.
Water: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during active growth and flowering periods. Avoid waterlogging.
Support: For climbing jasmine like Trachelospermum jasminoides (star jasmine), use a strong trellis or fence for vertical support.

Jasmine responds well to companion planting with garlic, nasturtiums, or marigolds, which help deter aphids and thrips. Avoid planting jasmine in poor soils without amendments, as this limits both growth and fragrance.

What is the Best Fertiliser for Jasmine Plants?

Jasmine plants require a balanced approach to feeding. Too much nitrogen results in excessive leaf growth and fewer blooms, while too little nutrition leads to pale leaves and poor flowering. The best fertiliser for jasmine focuses on phosphorus and potassium to support root strength and flower formation.

Recommended NPK Profile:

Moderate Nitrogen (N): Promotes green growth without reducing flower bud formation
High Phosphorus (P): Essential for flower production and root development
Ample Potassium (K): Improves flower colour, drought resistance, and plant health
Micronutrients: Magnesium and iron help prevent yellowing and support chlorophyll

Jasmine Fertiliser Schedule: When and How to Feed for Continuous Blooming

Knowing when to fertilise jasmine is key to getting consistent flowering throughout the growing season. A staggered approach works best—beginning with balanced feeding in spring and shifting toward bloom-enhancing nutrients during the warmer months.

Seasonal Feeding Schedule:

Late Winter to Early Spring (August–September): Begin with NPK 20-20-20 at half strength to support new shoots and root development.
Mid to Late Spring: Switch to NPK 4-18-38 every 4–6 weeks to drive flower production and maintain dark green foliage.
Summer: Maintain monthly feeding and mulch the base of the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Autumn: Stop fertilising by late March to allow the plant to prepare for winter dormancy.

Application Tips:

Dilute fertiliser at 4 mL per litre of water for established plants
Apply early morning or late afternoon to avoid scorching leaves
Use a watering can or apply directly to the root zone
For pots, feed at half strength every 2–3 weeks

To avoid nutrient lockout or over-fertilising, always apply to damp soil and never feed water-stressed plants. With the right products and timing, your jasmine will reward you with healthy vines and heavily scented blooms from spring through early autumn.