| I bought an assorted hibiscus (hibiscus spp.) from Home Depot this past summer. I guess it is actually 4 trees that have been braided together. I live in Kansas and this week I finally brought it inside (I had to get a pot with a drain and plate before bringing it in). Anyway, I hadn't noticed until after transplant that 2 of the trees aren't looking so great. The other 2 still have buds on them and are flowering and seem to be adapting well/doing better now that they've been brought in where it is warmer. However, the other 2 have no buds. 1 at least has very small leaves that I am hoping will continue to grow, but the other is completely bare. I'm concerned that it is either already dead or that I have to do something to save it. I do NOT have a green thumb but I really want this tree (4trees) to live. I know you aren't really supposed to prune this time of year, but would it be helpful in promoting growth for at least the 1 that is completely bare and brittle at the tips? I would accept any advice! I'm aware that I probably have not done well in caring for this plant or else it would be doing better, but as I said, past watering and pulling off dead leaves, I know very little. Thanks for any help you can offer! |
| I'll bet your hibiscus plant is spectacular when in bloom! Tropical hibiscus can be wintered over indoors with great success. All they need are bright light (some sunshine is beneficial), warm conditions and water when the top of the soil begins to dry out. They respond well to pruning so I'd suggest pruning the collection back by one-third. Pruning will encourage healthy new growth. As long as the roots are healthy, the two that look puny now should fill out within the next 4-6 weeks. Best wishes with your hibiscus! |
