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  1. Home
  2. Garden

How to grow hibiscus

A plant with an amazing range of colours, sizes and shapes. - by Better Homes and Gardens
  • 04 Nov 2020
How to grow hibiscus

The showy blooms of hibiscus take centre stage from late spring and continue to flower right through autumn. Each blossom lasts about 24 hours, with new ones flowering the next day.

They may look delicate, but they’re tough! With warm weather and regular attention, they will add a ray of sunshine to your garden. 

How to grow 

Climate

Evergreen varieties of hibiscus will grow in tropical to warm-temperate climates, provided the area is free of frost. Deciduous forms, such as Hibiscus syriacus, will also grow in cool-temperate and frosty climates. Hibiscuses can be planted at any time of year, but it’s best to plant deciduous forms during autumn, so they have time to establish their roots before winter sets in.

orange hibiscus
Getty

Aspect

These gems are sun lovers, so plant in full sun and protect from strong winds.

Soil

Hibiscuses grow best in well-drained, slightly acidic (pH 6-6.5) soil. The one exception is H. syriacus, which is tolerant of alkaline soils. Before planting, ensure you improve the soil with well-rotted compost or manure. These plants also grow well in pots. Plant them up with an acidic potting mix such as Brunnings Azalea And Camellia Potting Mix or Osmocote Professional Rose, Gardenia, Azalea & Camellia Mix.

pink hibiscus
Getty

Water

During the growing season, water regularly, and ensure drainage is good. Mulch the surrounding area with organic mulch, straw, hay or sugarcane, ensuring it doesn’t touch the stem. This will help keep the roots cool and moist in summer.

Feed

These plants respond well to fertiliser. Choose one that encourages blooms, and is high in nitrogen and potassium, such as Yates Thrive Soluble Flower & Fruit Plant Food or Miracle-Gro MaxFeed Flowers & Blooms Soluble Plant Food. You can also add a fish emulsion or seaweed extract to this feeding mix. Apply before and throughout the growing season (August through to March) as this will help intensify bloom colour and promote healthy growth.

pink hibiscus
Getty

Pests

Check plants for the hibiscus flower beetle. These tiny black insects burrow their way through flower buds and foliage, leaving gaping holes. Use a systemic insecticide, such as Yates Confidor or Defender MaxGuard to control infestations.

Maintenance

The best time to prune evergreen types is at the start of the growing season or when the last frost has passed – usually in September. They flower on new season wood, as do the deciduous types, which should be pruned in winter. Prune just above a bud and remove any weak or dead branches. If left unpruned, hibiscus shrubs will become scraggy and shapeless, with fewer flowers and smaller, duller blooms. Prune off one-third of the plant to help rejuvenate tired-looking plants.

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YOU’LL NEED A WEDGE TO HANG THAT DOOR
Watch 6:32

YOU’LL NEED A WEDGE TO HANG THAT DOOR

{headline}

{headline}

Four things flowers need to thrive

Four things flowers need to thrive

The ultimate guide to Australian native flowers

The ultimate guide to Australian native flowers

How to grow and care for ranunculus

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How to make beautiful flower pots at home

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{headline}

{headline}

How to tell the difference between Birds of Paradise plants

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How to grow lavender

How to grow lavender

What to plant in November

What to plant in November

{headline}

{headline}

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How to grow and care for clivias

Why you should add charcoal to your pot plants

Why you should add charcoal to your pot plants

Three Australian gardening apps

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How to make rhipsalis wall pockets

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How to get rid of crabgrass

How to get rid of crabgrass

How to grow alcantarea

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Fertilisers - the need to feed

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