Hibiscus Care

Watering
Hibiscus like water but do not let it stand with 'wet feet'. The soil need to dry up between waterings to protect from root rot. This is particularly important when place in a cool spot (+14-17C).

Fertilizing
Hibiscus need regular feedings every week during the growt period March-October for prolific flowering. Chose a fertilizer with a low phosphoros value: N(Nitrogen) 6 P(Phosphorous) 3 K(Kalium) 6 is ideal. Too much phosphorous makes for many fine leaves but few flowers. Hibiscus also need trace elements.

Replanting
Hibiscus have good root systems. Replanting is usually carried out in spring, February-March. Often one can see at that time that the roots pokes out in the bottom of the pot through the drainage holes. When the root ball has been carefully loosened and lifted out of the pot can ot often be seen that the roots has wrapt themselves around the inside of the pot. These roots must be loosened up properly. I doesn't matter if some of the roots break off. A root pruning might have to be carruied out if there is too much roots. Replant in a one size larger pot than before.

Pests
The most common pests on hibiscus that is grown i a dry indoor environment is Spider Mites. The most effective way to get rid of them is showering the plant with lukewarm water, strong blast, at least once a week. Make sure to clean the underside of the leaves. A daily water spraying may also be useful. Aphids can be treated in a similar way. In established cases use soap water.

Yellow Leaves
All hibiscus gets yellow leaves from time to time. A few yellow leaves usually only mean that the leaves are getting old. An other reason for yellow leaves is stress, caused by drastic environmental changes, pestinvations, especially spider mites and such.