GardeniaLeafCurl and Spider Mites.CurlyGardeniaLeaves due to Soil Problems. Gardenias prefer acidic soils with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. Gardenialeavescurl up due to improper watering techniques, poor water quality, bad soil choice, temperature trauma and wrong humidity. What does an overwatered Gardenia look like?How do I add iron to my gardenia?Should I remove yellow leaves from Gardenia? Extreme temperatures can induce leafcurling. Gardenias are sensitive to both excessive heat, which causes wilting and curling, and sudden cold snaps. Why Is My Gardenia Dropping Leaves? Leaf drop is another common issue with Gardenias, and will often continue without a break until the cause of the problem is corrected. For outdoor gardenia growers, high temperatures, especially when combined with dry conditions, can cause the leaves to yellow and curl. Pure white gardenia flower with curling petals, resting against deep green glossy leaves, captured in a rich close-up with natural lighting. Stock Photo. What would cause a gardenia’s leaves to curl this way? Read on to learn about the different things that can cause this to happen so that you can figure out what to do. 1 – Soil Issues. Learn how to identify if you're overwatering your gardenia with signs like yellow leaves and soggy soil. Essential tips for healthy plants!Light green or yellow new growth. Leafcurl and drop. I’m sorry your Gardenialeaves are curling and turning brown. There are several possible reasons why. Over/under watering: Water your plant only when the top inch of the soil feels dry... If the leafcurl, gardenialeaves turn brown, dieback occurs, and the soil is constantly wet. The plant should be removed from the pot immediately. With their wonderfully fragrant blossoms and lustrous, dark green leaves, gardenias (Gardenia jasminoides) are popular shrubs with many southern gardeners. Skip to Key to Gardenia Pests. Gardenia or cape jasmine, with its showy, fragrant white flowers and glossy, deep-green leaves, is one of the most delightful shrubs in the landscape. Gardenias are susceptible to leaf spot diseases, which manifest as brown, soft spots on leaves. These issues often result from overwatering and poor airflow.