How to Care for Hibiscus

The hibiscus is favorite of many a flower garden. Many people believe these beautiful flowering shrubs are difficult to care for. Nothing could be further from the truth. The hardy hibiscus can flourish in many different areas as long as they have the right soil conditions, are watered correctly and have proper fertilization. This article will discuss how to care for hibiscus.

The hardy hibiscus can survive in a range of locations. It can prosper from Florida all the way to the northern tip of Illinois. It ranges from zone 4 to 9. However, the tropical variety of hibiscus will only survive in Hawaii and South Florida. It thrives between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature drops the hibiscus will die back to the ground but will return once the soil temperature warms. However, the tropical variety of hibiscus will only survive in Hawaii and South Florida. It needs to be potted and brought indoors to survive the winter. Use a pot slightly larger than the root ball.

Location is of great importance to the hibiscus. The plant likes slightly acidic, well draining soils. And light, lots of light. The plants prefer full sun exposure. In partial sun conditions the plants will not bloom to their potential and may need to be staked. So find a sunny spot for the hibiscus.

In the summer months the hibiscus needs lot of water. Keep the soil moist to the touch. Mulch can be used to keep moisture in the ground around the base of the plant. In the summer the hardy hibiscus requires no water as it dies back to the ground. The tropical hibiscus should be watered sparingly in the winter. Only water when the soil feels dry to the touch. Give the plants a little food while they are growing. Fertilize the hibiscus using a long release fertilizer in the spring and again in the summer.

There are a few pests to look out for. The hibiscus sawfly is a little black fly that should be dealt with immediately with a specialized insecticide. They seem to like the hardy hibiscus whereas the aphids, thrips, and whiteflies like the tropical varieties. Use an insecticidal soap on these bad boys.

As you can see, how to care for hibiscus is not a difficult assignment. With the proper location, soil and light, water and fertilizer, as well as, watching out for the insects you will grow the most beautiful hibiscus plants year after year.

Tips for Growing Hibiscus

The Hibiscus produces the most brilliant flowers in your fall garden.  Getting the full effect of the plant is not a difficult task. The main points to consider are site, proper feeding, and insect control. This article will offer tips for growing the most beautiful hibiscus plants. 

The hibiscus is a perennial, sun loving plant. Actually it is considered an herbaceous perennial, which means; it will die back completely to the ground during the winter but will come back strong when the soil warms in the spring. The shrub thrives on well draining, fertile sandy loams but will do well in most average soils. For full flower production make sure the hibiscus is growing in full sunlight. Even slight shade will cause shoots not to ripen well and impair flowering. Once the hibiscus is growing in the right spot follow a proper feeding schedule.

Setting up a feeding program for the hibiscus is quite easy. They like to drink lots of water. Water regularly during the spring and summer months. To help newly planted hibiscus recover quickly watch the leaves for signs of wilting. Wilting leaves is a sign that the plant needs water. Use an all-purpose plant food such as fish blood and bone meal in the spring and again in the summer. Yellowing of the leaves is a sign that the hibiscus needs plant food. A growing hibiscus needs lots of water and bit of plant food to reach their full potential but watch out for those pesky insects.

The hibiscus main insect threat is aphids. Aphids are small sap sucking insects. They are one the greatest threats to cultivated plants in temperate regions. Aphids can be controlled in a variety of ways. First is chemical pesticides, second is the use of eco-friendly plant extracts, third is to introduce a natural predator, such as, the lacewing into the environment. Horticultural soap that is sold commercially works well controlling aphid populations on hibiscus plants.

As you can tell from these tips, growing hibiscus plants is not difficult at all. With the right location and feeding schedule, as well as, a keen eye watching out for those pesky aphids, your hibiscus will thrive. A thriving hibiscus is a site to behold with large colorful flowers blooming from late summer into the fall. 

What You Need to Know About Growing Hibiscus

The Hibiscus is most widely cultivated landscape plant in the world. The popularity comes from a combination of the brilliant blooming flowers coupled with the ease of growing.  Hibiscus can be grown in almost any area of the country provided you follow some simple guidelines. This article will offer tips on growing hibiscus plants of your very own.

The hibiscus comes in two varieties: Tropical and Hardy. Unless you live in Miami or Honolulu you will want to use the hardy variety.  The hardy hibiscus can grow in zones 4-8 with some preparation for the winter. There are many hybrids and variations so be sure to check the label or ask the salesperson for the zone information of any plant you are going to buy. Once you have chosen the plants for your location, let’s get ready to plant them.

Plant the hibiscus in moist soil with direct sunlight. Soil preparation for planting is really simple. The plants like a well drained, slightly acidic soil. To accomplish this add some organic compost and peat moss to the soil and mix. The plants are very adaptable to soil conditions so do not get carried away. The hibiscus loves to bask in the sun so make sure you plant it in a location that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.  Getting these two items right is the key to growing hibiscus.

Maintaining the hibiscus is a snap. They love to drink so make sure you water regularly. The soil around the plant should be kept moist. Use mulch to keep moisture in soil during the hot summer months. The leaves will begin to wilt if the plant is not getting enough water. Prune the plant if needed. Some species can grow to five feet tall. These varieties may have to be staked. If the leaves begin to yellow use it needs some fertilizer.  After the growing season cut the hibiscus down to the ground and cover with mulch. The plant will go dormant for the winter but will come back in the late spring. Make sure you put a flag or stake in the ground so you remember where your hibiscus is located.

As you can tell, growing hibiscus is really easy.  There are literally hundreds of varieties to choose from in all shapes, sizes and colors. So pick out one you like, find the right spot to plant, keep it watered and you will have a beautiful hibiscus.