Knowledge is power – Learn B4 You Buy

HIBISCUS – VERSATILE

Hibiscus is surprisingly interesting and versatile when it comes to choosing a plant for possible multiple purposes.  If you are not sure what kind of plant you want, the Hibiscus will give you plenty of reasons why to buy and try.   So, lets delve into the reasons why we believe this plant is top of the charts when it comes to versatility.

Let us start with the Top 10 Interesting benefits of choosing Hibiscus.

1. Can plant single or grow as a hedge plant.
2. Can be cut and shaped into a single stemmed small tree.
3. Attracts Hummingbirds.
4. Attracts Butterflies and Bees.
5. Will adapt to growing in containers, hanging pots and as a creeper.
6. Can grow up to 15 feet (in frost free areas).
7. Contains valuable vitamin C and essential fatty acids.
8. Can create a healthy tasty tea, similar taste to cranberry.  Served hot or cold.
9. Hibiscus is a Perennial and flowers throughout the year.
10. Fun Fact – worn behind the ears can inform a potential partner if you are single or not

WHERE TO PLANT

This beauty requires FULL sun for at least five to six hours per day within well-drained soil.  You can also keep Hibiscus in containers, hanging pots or use as a creeper.   The perfect plant and ideal for small tiny living, lofts or roof gardens.

HOW TO PLANT

Spring, Summer or Fall, dig a hole as deep as the root ball and two to three times as wide.  Make sure to space the plants three to six feet apart and if the soil is not great, re-condition the soil with a small amount of compost.   Set the plant in the hole without the container and fill the hole with soil and water letting the soil settle without air pockets.   Let it drain well and fill what is left with soil and water.

CARE

Each week make sure the Hibiscus receives at least 1inch of rain as they should be kept moist but not wet.  Make sure to keep constantly moist.  Once growing season hits cut the branches back above a side shoot, feed twice a month and prune for maximum control.   If the leaves start turning yellow, this means you have probably watered the plant too much.

This beautiful coloring flower has a short bloom but do not worry, enjoy the colorful blooms before they wilt during the afternoon.  By morning time you will see fresh new blooms to enjoy once again all day.     

Sensitivity to cold is the one negative for this beautiful plant.  If temperatures dip below 30’s container plants should be kept indoors and possibly cover the outdoor Hibiscus with a cover. Protect, protect, and protect.

Checking for pests regularly is a must such as white flies, mealybugs, and aphids.  Mealybugs are easy to spot due to the white cotton infestation on the buds, stems, or leaves.  Trim the infected part away to protect the infected area and spray with water and a suitable pesticide.

BREEDING / PROPAGATION

If you are enjoying the Hibiscus flower, you may want to possibly try breeding (Propagation)

All you need to do is take a branch from a non-matured plant and trim it making sure the cuttings are four to six inches long with some leaves still attached at the end of it.  The branch will be soft, so be careful once you start to trim.  Once you have carefully trimmed the cuttings, place them into well-draining soil for the root to take hold.  Now, make sure to cover the cutting with like a green house effect, this will help your young shoots root.  Make sure the soil is always moist, not soaked.

If you wish to grow from seed, the conditions need to be exactly right.  Purchase a potting soil or mix for starting seed and plant about a quarter inch deep in the mix.  Keep the seeds in a warm sunny condition with a temperature of about 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.   After two to three weeks you should see your Hibiscus seeds sprouting. Voila, you have succeeded, congratulations and enjoy

DRINKING

Served both hot and cold this tea is well known in many countries including West Africa, Mexico, Central America, India, Egypt, and Jamaica and many more across the Caribbean.  Known for its red color, unique flavor, and benefits of vitamin C.   To prepare the beverage you need to steep the petals in hot water until the colors are drawn from the petals.  Add lime juice which turns the drink from a dark brown red to a bright red, then add a sweetener such as sugar or honey and if desired, cold water and ice cubes.

Did you purchase a Hibiscus from us? did you grow a Hibiscus from seed or bred a Hibiscus.  Let us know, we would love to feature you on our website.