Hibiscus

Hibiscus plants are known for their vibrant and showy flowers, and they can be a beautiful addition to any garden or indoor space. To ensure your hibiscus plants thrive and produce abundant blooms, explore our care guide below.

Where to Plant your Hibiscus

• Hibiscus plants love sunlight, so place them in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. 
• Although most Hibiscus plants are hardy in the UK, they prefer warm temperatures between 15°C and 32°C. 
• So it is best to protect them from cold drafts or extreme temperatures, if you can. 
• They also enjoy a relatively high humidity level, so misting the leaves occasionally or placing a tray of water nearby can help maintain the humidity. 
• Plant hibiscus in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. 
• A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and compost works well.

Caring for your Hibiscus

• Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering, as hibiscus plants are prone to root rot. 
• Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry. 
• Provide deep waterings rather than frequent shallow ones to encourage deep root growth. 
• During hot summer months, hibiscus plants may need more frequent watering to prevent wilting.
• Fertilise regularly during the growing season (spring to fall) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for hibiscus. 
• Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging and avoid overfertilizing, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Maintaining your Hibiscus

• Prune your hibiscus plants regularly to maintain their shape, promote branching, and remove dead or diseased branches. 
• The best time to prune is in early spring before new growth begins. 
• Pinch or trim the growing tips of young hibiscus plants to encourage bushier growth. 
• Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. 
• Hibiscus plants can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. 
• Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of infestation and take appropriate measures, such as spraying with insecticidal soap or using natural predators like ladybugs. 
• Watch out for common diseases like powdery mildew or root rot. 
• Ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overwatering to prevent these issues.

Winter Advice for Hibiscus

If you live in a region with cold winters, hibiscus plants are typically not frost-tolerant. Consider replanting hibiscus in pots indoors or into a greenhouse during winter. Reduce watering during the dormant period and place the plant in a cool, well-lit location. Alternatively, if you have hibiscus planted in the ground, you can cover them with a frost blanket or mulch around the base to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.

Conclusion

By following these care guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of your hibiscus plants as they produce stunning flowers and add a tropical touch to your surroundings.