Why Does My Jasmine Plant Look Dead After the Winter?

Once winter has passed, plants begin blooming and growing; jasmine is no exception. However, if a jasmine plant appears to have died over the winter, gardeners should examine it thoroughly to see if it can be saved.

Jasmine plants that are covered with dead leaves may be in need of pruning. Removing the previous season's dead growth helps invigorate the plant and clears the way for new growth to emerge. It also helps prevent rotting dead leaves and flowers from attracting harmful pests and fungi to the garden.

A lack of water can account for jasmine's failure to begin growing again. Drought and dry soil prevent the jasmine from starting a new season's growth, leaving the plant dormant and looking dead. Regular watering helps bring the plant out of its dormancy.

Most jasmine plants are tropical and should be brought indoors for the winter because freezing temperatures will kill them. Even winter jasmine can be damaged or killed by severe winter weather and freezes. Cover the roots of the plant with mulch, and cover the plant with a frost blanket before winter to keep the ground warm.