What tips do you have on keeping hibiscus flowering? What type of soil, light, etc. for inside and outside growing? |
Lots of people grow hibiscus as houseplants during the winter, putting them outdoors for the summer months. Ideally, plants should be allowed to gradually adjust to indoor conditions after growing outdoors all summer. They're more likely to retain their leaves, and less likely to attract pests. When the daytime temperatures reach a minimum of 60F in the spring, gradually acclimate it back to the outdoors by exposing it to a little more sun each day over the course of a week. Reverse the process in fall when you bring it inside. Hibiscus like average household temperatures and very bright light. They also want moist, but not soggy soil. Use any fast-draining potting soil. Mist the leaves regularly to add some moisture to the air. If the plant gets too leggy, you can pinch back some of the stems. Fertilize during the spring/summer months (March through August as a rule of thumb). Once you bring your plant indoors you can scout for insects and insect eggs. Hope this helps! |