Hibiscus plants attract butterfies and hummingbirds. (see ref 2)
Hibiscus blooms are exotic-looking plants and may be grown indoors or out. Dwarf plants only grow to heights of 2 or 3 feet, other varieties grow to 8 feet or more. The blooms usually last for one day, and come in an array of colors. Hibiscus don't require dead-heading, the flower drops off after the bloom wilts. This plant does not tolerate cold well, therefore must be brought inside during the winter in cooler climates. There are perennial and annual varieties of this plant. Does this Spark an idea?
Soil Conditions
Plant the hibiscus in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Equal parts of potting soil and peat moss and one part of perlite or vermiculite is a wise choice for potted plants.
Sunlight and Water Needs
Position the hibiscus in an area where it receives full sunlight. Indoor potted plants require four or five hours of bright, direct sunlight to bloom well. Western or southern-facing windows are the best choice for indoor plants. It thrives well in daytime temperatures of 65 to 75 degrees. Water the hibiscus from the top of the soil so it comes out of the drain holes in a pot. Drain off excess water because it does not tolerate soggy soil. The plant does well with drier soil conditions during the winter months.
Fertilizing and Pruning Needs
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer. Ratios of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 are wise choices. Outdoor conditions require fertilization at half the recommended strength during the summer. Use the fertilizer once every two or three weeks outdoors and once a month or every six weeks for indoor potted plants. It requires less frequent fertilization during the winter. Prune any leggy growth during the winter. Heavier pruning will not harm the plant if you wish to keep it a small size, although it may take longer to bloom.
Propagation
Cut a strong, healthy shoot off the hibiscus plant to propagate it. The cutting should be 3 to 5 inches in length. Coat the end of the cutting with a rooting hormone, shake off the excess and plant it in a small pot with a light potting soil. Water the soil so it stays consistently moist and place the pot in a well-lit area. Transplant it in three to five weeks.
Problems
Treat fungi problems by removing affected areas of the plant. Avoid letting mulch touch the stems, this may cause southern blight. Washing the plant foliage regularly prevents aphids or spider mites. Use insecticidal soap if necessary.
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