A Brief Guide on How to Grow Tropical Hibiscus

Did you know that there are over 200 species of hibiscus plant?

Hibiscus are a family of tropical flowering plants. They are well-loved by gardeners for their gorgeous red, pink, purple, and orange blooms. 

Are you interested in adding hibiscus plants to beautify your home or garden? Do you feel clueless about hibiscus plant care?

Here is everything you need to know to grow tropical hibiscus. 

Soil Conditions

All varieties of hibiscus prefer well-draining, moist soil. They are native to the tropical forests of India and Malaysia and other warm, moist areas around the world. Some species are even native to Florida!

As you might imagine, the soil in tropical forests stays rather moist. Most hibiscus varieties prefer soil that is slightly acidic, fertile, and loamy. 

Plant hibiscus in the early spring or as soon as the weather stays consistently above fifty degrees Fahrenheit. If you're planting in a container, the container should be no larger than twice the size of the hibiscus plant's root ball. 

Watering Habits

Hibiscus plants need soil that is constantly moist but not soaked. After being freshly planted, your hibiscus plant needs to be watered at least every two to three days. 

Once your hibiscus plant is well established, water at least once per week. It's nearly impossible to overwater a hibiscus as long as the soil is well-draining. If you have problems with the soil drying out too quickly, add mulch around the base of your hibiscus. 

Sunlight Preferences

Hibiscus love bright light. In cooler, northern climates, your hibiscus should be placed in full sun. If you live in a particularly hot climate, grow your hibiscus in filtered sunlight, such as under a large tree or porch awning. 

Outdoor hibiscus are usually much happier than indoor hibiscus. If you must grow your hibiscus indoors, place it near the sunniest window possible. These are usually south-facing windows. However, you should avoid placing your hibiscus in direct sunlight from the window. 

Quickly Growing Hibiscus

After your hibiscus has become established in the soil, it may take some time for it to start growing and blooming. Most hibiscus plants bloom in hot months, from early summer to late fall. There are a few things you can do to encourage blooms and keep them for as long as possible.

Enrich your soil with compost, earthworms, and fertilizer. In peak seasons, it's a good idea to add high-quality plant food every few weeks. Use a fertilizer specifically designed for blooming plants. 

Hibiscus blooms usually only last for one or two days. When the blooms start to wrinkle and close, pinch and remove them from the plant. This will allow the plant to devote its resources to a new bloom.

To encourage larger hibiscus plants, prune the branches in late winter or early spring. Trim the dead branches and leaves by about one-third. 

Hello Hibiscus!

Hibiscus blooms are some of nature's most impressive flowers. Many people love to grow hibiscus to add summer flair to their patio or poolside. Follow these tips, and soon you'll have a whole tropical hibiscus garden!

Are you ready to grow your own tropical hibiscus? Browse our selection of gorgeous tropical hibiscus varieties!