Tropical Hibiscus

Tropical hibiscus plants do not tolerate dry soil for extended periods. Water deeply, saturating the entire root area until runoff appears at the bottom of the pot. Allow the top of the soil to dry between waterings before you water again. Adjust your watering schedule depending on the season and temperature – plants need more water when it is hot and dry, and less when temperatures drop and the soil is cooler.

Tropical hibiscus thrive in bright, direct sunlight for at least eight hours a day. Avoid areas of the garden that are too shady as this can inhibit growth and flowering. To encourage flowering, expose the hibiscus to direct sunlight during the morning and move it to a shadier area during afternoons, when the temperatures are highest.

Tropical hibiscus are cold sensitive and prefer warm temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18-27 degrees Celsius). If the temperature reaches below 45°F (7°C) the shrub can suffer severe damage. In cold regions, hibiscus have to be taken indoors before the cold temperatures set in.

This tropical plant loves humidity and it will thrive in moist air. Increase the humidity by misting the plant often or placing a humidifier in the same room. To avoid leaf burn, avoid holding the spray near the plant leaves when you mist.

Tropical hibiscus prefers soils that are slightly acidic in pH. An ideal soil mix will consist of equal parts of potting soil, sand, and compost. The soil should be light and well-draining, but also retain moisture to give the roots plenty of water when they need it.

Fertilize tropical hibiscus plants monthly with a balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and other essential minerals and trace elements. Liquid fertilizers are best and should be diluted to half or quarter strength when applying to ensure that the roots are not damaged by too much fertilizer. Keep in mind the plant’s needs may change over the course of the year, so don’t be afraid to adjust the feedings at any time but avoid over-fertilizing your hibiscus.

Tropical hibiscus plants are prone to slugs, mealybugs, scale and whitefly attacks. Slugs can be controlled by trapping them with beer or by placing copper collars around the pots. Other pests can be eliminated with a chemical insecticide; for a more natural solution, opt in for neem oil or horticultural oils. For a preventative measure, check plants regularly and pick off any pests that appear.

To repot a tropical hibiscus, you should do so in the springtime when the weather starts to warm up. Choose a container that is at least two sizes bigger than the plant currently inhabits and make sure to prepare the soil with enough organic compost to keep it moist but well-drained so that the root system has plenty of room to grow.

Pruning should be done twice a year, once in late winter and again in summer. Pruning helps to keep the hibiscus from becoming leggy, encourages growth, and produces an attractive shape. Remove any old or dead blossoms, as well as any sucker growths from the base of the stalk.

Mulching will help to retain water during hot summer days and to prevent the roots from becoming too cold in winter. It will also help to reduce weeds and protect the roots from direct sunlight. Mulch the base of the plant with shredded bark or leaves.

Tropical hibiscus can be propagated through stem cuttings taken from the mother plant. Cut a stem about 4-5 inches in length, remove the foliage from the bottom half of the stem and dip the lower end into some rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in moist potting soil, and keep in warm and humid conditions while the cutting takes root. Once the cutting has rooted, you can safely transplant it into a new container.

Tropical hibiscus can be quite heavy with flowers, so support may need to be added for stability. A single stake or trellis may be enough for smaller plants, whereas larger plants may require a number of stakes. Support can also be provided using a tomato cage or other form of lattice structure.

Tropical hibiscus do not go through a true rest period, but they do enter a time of dormancy in winter when growth slows down and blooming stops. During this time, the plant should not be fed, and watering should be reduced. Light will also need to be adjusted so that it is not too bright.

Tropical hibiscus is not toxic to animals. In fact, hibiscus flowers are edible and can be used in salads and other dishes.