07/01/2025
Oasis Gardening Tips: Growing Hibiscus
Grow a hibiscus shrub at home and enjoy masses of tropical, trumpet-like flowers in your backyard. Here's a simple guide to help you get started.
Choose the Right Hibiscus
Tropical or hardy perennial. Both prefer acidic soil and thrive in the ground or containers, providing vibrant color and continuous blooms.
Soil: Improve the soil by adding compost to the planting hole. If your soil is alkaline, sandy, or poor, your hibiscus might show signs of iron deficiency (yellowing leaves). To make the soil more acidic, use coffee grounds. For container-grown hibiscus, use well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter. The acidity of the soil can affect flower color.
Light: Most hibiscus varieties prefer full sun or partial shade. While some tolerate shade, it may reduce flowering. More light means more flowers.
Watering: Water regularly after planting, especially during dry spells. Check the soil frequently. Hibiscus like water but dislike soggy conditions. Ensure good drainage by adding drainage material when planting and using well-drained soil. Water should drain away quickly.
Fertilizing: Hibiscus are heavy feeders. Use a fertilizer high in phosphorus, such as bone meal. Fertilizing helps with flowering, but it won't help if the plant is in the wrong location (like shade). Over-fertilizing can harm the plant.
Pruning: Pruning encourages bushier growth.
* Tropical hibiscus: Prune in spring after the last frost.
* Hardy hibiscus: Prune after the leaves fall.
Additional Tips
* Hibiscus flowers only last a day or two. Deadhead (remove) spent blooms daily to encourage new growth.
* If growing in containers, water and feed regularly throughout the growing season.
