How to Fertilize Star Jasmine

Trachelospermum jasminoides

Reviewed by Kiersten Rankel M.S.

Quick Answer

Use a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer in early spring, then switch to a bloom-boosting formula higher in phosphorus (like 7-9-5) as buds form. Feed every 4 weeks from spring through early fall.

When Should I Start Feeding My Star Jasmine?

Begin feeding when you spot new growth at the vine tips in spring, which varies by region since Star Jasmine thrives in zones 8a through 10b.

Pacific Feb–Oct

Mountain May–Aug

Midwest Apr–Sep

Northeast May–Sep

Southeast Mar–Oct

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How Often Should I Fertilize My Star Jasmine?

Feed Star Jasmine once every 4 weeks during the growing season. This vine is a moderate feeder that does not need heavy or frequent fertilizing to perform well.

After the main bloom flush in late spring, continue monthly feeding through summer to support new growth and possible rebloom. Taper to one final feeding in early fall.

Stop fertilizing by mid-fall. Star Jasmine is semi-evergreen in mild climates, but pushing growth too late into the season produces tender shoots vulnerable to frost damage.

Feeding Calendar

Spring

Balanced 10-10-10 granular or liquid every 4 weeks

Summer

Bloom-boosting formula (higher phosphorus) every 4 weeks

Early Fall

One final balanced feeding, then stop

Late Fall & Winter

No feeding

What Is the Best Fertilizer for Star Jasmine?

Star Jasmine benefits from two types of fertilizer through the season. Start with a balanced 10-10-10 formula in early spring to support new vine growth and leaf production.

Once you see flower buds forming (usually late spring), switch to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus, like a 7-9-5 or similar bloom formula. The extra phosphorus supports heavier flowering and stronger fragrance.

Granular slow-release fertilizer works well for outdoor Star Jasmine since it feeds steadily between applications. For container-grown plants, liquid fertilizer gives you more control over how much the plant receives.

Synthetic

Osmocote Smart-Release 14-14-14

Slow-release granules that feed for up to 4 months. Sprinkle around the base of outdoor Star Jasmine in early spring for hands-off nutrition.

Jack's Classic Blossom Booster 10-30-20

High-phosphorus water-soluble formula for the bloom phase. Mix 1 tablespoon per gallon and apply monthly once buds appear.

Organic

Dr. Earth Flower Girl Bud & Bloom Booster 3-9-4

Organic granular fertilizer designed for flowering plants. Apply every 2 months during the growing season for steady bloom support.

Espoma Plant-tone 5-3-3

All-natural granular fertilizer with beneficial soil microbes. Good for the early-season balanced feeding phase before bloom.

How Do I Fertilize My Star Jasmine?

Water the root zone first

Soak the soil around the base of your Star Jasmine before applying fertilizer. This prevents root burn, especially in hot weather.

Measure your fertilizer

For granular slow-release, follow the label rate for the plant's size. For liquid, dilute to full strength since Star Jasmine is not salt-sensitive like many houseplants.

Apply around the drip line

Scatter granules or pour liquid fertilizer in a ring around the base of the plant, roughly where the outer leaves end. Avoid piling fertilizer against the main stem.

Water in thoroughly

Give the area a good soaking after applying granules to start dissolving them into the root zone. For liquid feeding, the application itself counts as watering.

Switch formulas at bud set

When you see tiny flower buds forming along the vines, swap your balanced fertilizer for a bloom-boosting formula higher in phosphorus to support heavier flowering.

Got More Questions?

Can I use coffee grounds around my Star Jasmine?

Star Jasmine prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, so a thin layer of composted coffee grounds is fine as a mulch. Do not pile them on thick, as they can compact and repel water.

What happens if I over-fertilize my Star Jasmine?

You will see lots of leafy vine growth but very few flowers. In severe cases, the leaf edges turn brown and crispy. Flush the root zone with a deep watering and skip the next scheduled feeding.

Why is my Star Jasmine not blooming even though I fertilize it?

Too much nitrogen promotes leaf growth at the expense of flowers. Switch to a bloom-boosting fertilizer higher in phosphorus. Also make sure your plant gets at least 4 hours of direct sun, as shade reduces flowering.

Should I fertilize Star Jasmine in winter?

No. Even in mild climates where it stays green year-round, Star Jasmine is not actively growing in winter. Fertilizing now just adds unused salts to the soil.

Can I use the same fertilizer for Star Jasmine and my lawn?

Lawn fertilizers are very high in nitrogen, which will produce leggy vines with few blooms. Use a balanced or bloom-specific fertilizer instead.

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About This Article

Kiersten Rankel M.S.

Botanical Data Lead at Greg · Plant Scientist

About the Author

Kiersten Rankel holds an M.S. in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology from Tulane University. A certified Louisiana Master Naturalist, she has over a decade of experience in science communication, with research spanning corals, cypress trees, marsh grasses, and more. At Greg, she curates species data and verifies care recommendations against botanical research.

See Kiersten Rankel's full background on LinkedIn.

Editorial Process

Fertilizer recommendations verified against Trachelospermum jasminoides growth data from Greg's botanical database, cross-referenced with USDA hardiness zone data and published horticultural research.

2,642+ Greg users growing this plant

USDA hardiness zones 8a–10b

Citations:
NC State Extension
Missouri Botanical Garden
Royal Horticultural Society

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