Hibiscus Sinensis

Hibiscus are a relatively easy to care for evergreen house plant. They are grown primarily for their exotic trumpet like blooms which are available in many different colours ranging from white, pink and yellow through to bright reds and two-tone flowers. The individual flowers are short lived - however the plant will produce masses of flowers throughout the late spring / summer months.

Position
Hibiscus plants require a good light level to prolong their flowering period, however they do not want direct sunlight as this may scorch their leaves. They require a constant temperature between 15-30C. Plants should never be stood in either a draft or near any source of heat.

Watering
The plants can be allowed to slightly dry out in between watering's. Never leave a Hibiscus plant stood in water for any period of time. Plants may be misted during times of warm weather. During the cooler Winter months watering levels should be reduced.

Feeding
Hibiscus require regular feeding throughout the growing season. The perfect fertiliser for Hibiscus plants is Tomorite liquid tomato feed. It is a high Potash fertilizer which will greatly help to increase the number of flowers per plant.

Re-potting
If plants need to be re-potted, this should be carried out during the spring months - once the plant has started actively growing. Plants should only ever be potted up one pot size at a time.

Pruning
Pruning may be conducted once the plant has finished flowering. Stems should be pruned back by 1/3. This will encourage new growth which will then in-turn produce future flowers and a bushier plant.

Extra Pointers
Dead heading is a vital part of Hibiscus care, regular dead heading will promote new flowers and will prolong the flowering season.