Hibiscus Care & Maintenance

Hibiscus plants produce beautiful flowers.

Hibiscus plants produce very attractive flowers that grow on medium-sized shrubs. According to the National Gardening Association, hibiscus flowers are one of the best edible tree and shrub flowers, so they are useful for things other than just decoration. Hibiscus shrubs are relatively easy to care for with a few supplies and simple care techniques.

Climate

Hibiscus plants prefer warm climates and grow well in the southern United States and tropical areas like Hawaii. However, gardeners in different climates all over the world can grow hibiscus plants with the proper care. The University of Arkansas recommends growing hibiscus plants in pots and indoors during winter, especially in areas with cold weather. Make sure the plants get direct sunlight for at least part of the day, and use a plant light if they do not receive much sunlight indoors.

Pruning

Older hibiscus plants may not bloom very often without pruning. North Dakota State University recommends trimming hibiscus stems right above buds or lateral branches. Pruning encourages new growth and also allows gardeners to keep the plants at whatever size they prefer.

Pests

Insects often munch on hibiscus leaves, which damages the plant. North Dakota State University recommends using an insecticidal soap to kill insects by washing the plant leaves in the soap. Most gardening stores sell insecticidal soaps. They are a good insecticide choice because they kill bugs but are usually not toxic to humans.

Watering

According to North Dakota State University, hibiscus plants are sensitive to changes in watering. Develop a regular system of watering hibiscus plants with the same type of water (ideally filtered or distilled water). They prefer constant dampness and humidity but do not like to be overly saturated. The exception is when hibiscus plants become dormant and require less water.

Dormant Hibiscus

Hibiscus plants sometimes enter a period of dormancy, especially during fall or winter, after blooming or after transplanting or any other shock. North Dakota State University recommends allowing plants to become dormant when the leaves start yellowing and growth slows down. During dormancy, water plants less and do not fertilize them.

Fertilizing

Lightly fertilize hibiscus plants three or four times per year. The University of Florida recommends a manganese sulfate fertilizer or commercial fertilizer mixtures with a variety of nutrients. Use a commercial fertilizer with multiple nutrients with packaging that says it will be good for hibiscus, or ask a local gardening store to recommend a fertilizer for hibiscus plants. Apply a small amount of fertilizer following directions on the packaging. When using manganese sulfate fertilizer, apply 1 to 2 oz. depending on the size of the plant.

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