Earlier this spring, I succumbed to the lure of a small plant: a Variegated Dwarf Gardenia. Currently it is on my deck in a pot, and will be blooming shortly. It will probably do fine here until mid October without much fuss. My question is regarding the best way to overwinter it.

I have 'regular' Gardenia August Beauty growing in my yard, and that plant is hardy here, not requiring much care. Is the mini one also hardy in this manner? In other words - plant it in the ground to overwinter it (pot and all?).

Would it be fine in its pot on the deck to overwinter it here just north of Atlanta? (deck is south facing.) In other words just let it be.

Should it be brought indoors? (usually a kiss of death to gardenias in my experience) If so where? South window with a humidity tray? Indirect Sun?

Thanks in Advance