| Below are some Frequently Asked Questions about the hibiscus which you can scan. To save time, you could also see Rosa and pose your question. Don’t be shy--it’s easy enough!
What does "garden variety" mean?
A garden variety hibiscus is a variety which has stood the test of time and is widely sold at garden centers. They do not require grafting to propagate and grow on their own roots.
What are hybrid varieties?
The term usually is applied to special, often new varieties (called cultivars) that may have unique qualities. Over 7000 varieties have been registered with the American Hibiscus Society. They are rarely found in garden centers but are specially grown by various nurseries and sold on a smaller scale, and can be found on the internet. These may require grafting onto other hibiscus varieties for propagation.
What kind of soil works best for planting?
Soil should have good drainage. You can mix equal parts of peat moss, compost and soil from the spot where you are planting. Perlite or vermiculite can also be added.
Where should hibiscus be planted outside?
Hibiscus need at least 50% sun and should be planted 2-4 feet apart.
Can hibiscus be grown in containers?
Oh yes, but make sure there are drainage holes on the side near the bottom and on the bottom of the container. Put pebbles or plastic peanuts near the bottom to promote drainage and then add a mixture of peat moss, compost and soil. Perlite or vermiculite can also be added. When frost is imminent, bring container plants inside.
When should hibiscus be watered?
Normally 1" of water once a week suffices. Always water before spraying with insecticide, and before and after applying fertilizer.
How often should hibiscus be fertilized?
Apply monthly but lightly (or quarterly if time-release). Use a balanced blend containing minor elements. In Florida, a 7-2-7 blend works well. Sprinkling Potassium Nitrate and Epsom salts from time to time can promote blooming, green leaves and vigorous growth.
What about mulching?
Mulch conserves water and protects from heat. Mulch 2" deep but not against the trunk to avoid fungus growth.
Why do ants like hibiscus so much?
Actually they like hibiscus when aphids are living on them because aphids leave a honey-like secretion that the ants like. Use a systemic spray and/or soap solution to control aphids.
Why do hibiscus leaves get yellow?
If the yellow leaves are splotchy, look out. It could be that tiny spider mites have found a home and they can destroy the plant. You'll need to spray with miticides several times. Otherwise, leaves can become yellow due to almost any kind of "stress", e.g., too much or too little water. If the veins of yellow leaves are green, it can be caused by iron deficiency, and wider veins signal a magnesium deficiency (then try Epsom salts).
How do I get rid of white flies on hibiscus plants?
These are a nuisance and are generally found on the underside of leaves. Systemic sprays and soap solution can be used but expect to use 4 treatments. A nearby yellow surface (e.g. a piece of cloth) can attract them.
How do I treat white spots on the trunk?
This is due to a sucking insect (white snow scale). Try a systemic spray or soap solution, or scrub with a weak solution of bleach.
What causes white spots under leaves?
Mealy bugs can be the culprit. Treat with a systemic spray, oil, or soap solution four times.
Why do buds drop off?
Usually this is caused by a tiny insect called a thrip. Try a systemic spray or soap solution.
Why prune?
Pruning modifies plant growth to fit available space and stimulates growth of new "wood" for better flowering.
When should I prune?
Never prune when there might be frost that would kill subsequent new growth. The best time is generally March in our area.
How do you prune?
First cut off dead, diseased, or overgrown branches. When trimming branches, cut above a bud eye at an angle (this leaves the but at the top of the cut). Remove branches that are growing inward or are growing on a collision course. Also remove branches that are less than 6" from the soil. Shape to achieve nice esthetics. Clean your tools.
How do you hybridize hibiscus?
Hand pollination is necessary. If you're really interested you should get a copy of the American Hibiscus Society Hibiscus Handbook to learn the details.
What is the botanical classification of hibiscus?
The term hibiscus denotes the genus hibiscus which belongs to the Malvaceae family and has 300 species including Rosa Sinensis, the tropical hibiscus, which in turn has thousands of varieties. The Malvaceae family members have star-shaped hairs and glue-like sap, and are part the Malvales order. Malvales consist mostly of flowering shrubs and trees, and is an order of the Magnolipsida class, which are dicots, i.e., seedlings have two seedling leaves. This class is the largest class of flowering plants and belongs to the division Magnoliophyta which consists of all flowering plants in the plant kingdom.
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