Correct Soil Moisture For Gardenias And Lavender

Question From: San Clemente, California, United States
Q: I bought a Panacea moisture meter. I have gardenias in one part of my yard and lavender in another part. What would be the correct moisture levels for these two plants

A: Gardenias prefer moderately moist soil. Allowing them to dry out will cause bud drop. Lavender, on the other hand should be run on the dry side. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy