| i have 2 hibiscus plants and i would like to keep them for next summer is there anyway to protect them from the winter months |
| There are two types of hibiscus: tropical (with glossy leaves) and hardy (with dull leaves). Let's hope you have the perennial hibiscus (Rose-Mallow), rather than the tropical (Chinese) hibiscus. The perennial hibiscus is a hardy deciduous shrub that dies back in the winter months but springs to life when the weather warms. Planted in a sunny spot it will produce new stems each spring, that will flower during the summer. Water moderately during the growing season and mulch the soil with organic matter to help conserve moisture and to suppress weeds. The tropical Chinese hibiscus is best kept as a houseplant that's taken outdoors during the spring and summer months. This plant thrives on bright light and humidity indoors and out but will be damaged by temperatures lower than 45 degrees. Try to find out which type of hibiscus you're growing so you know whether to plant it out in the garden, or in a container that you can move with the seasons. |
