Growing in tropical regions, hibiscus plants are very popular for their big, brightly colored flowers. They can be grown indoors as well as outdoors. Let us look at some tips on how to maintain them.
Everyone loves flowers, especially big blooms. One such flower is the hibiscus. Its petals are very attractive and are available in many colors. Many people plant these flowers in their gardens for its exotic colors. Maintaining this plant is simple and hassle-free. Here is its scientific classification.
Hibiscus plants are also called rosemallow, sorrel, or Flor de Jamaica. These plants have more than 200 species. They are found in colors like white, yellow, pink, red, purple, orange, etc. This flower has five or more petals.
These are indoor as well as outdoor plants and can also be planted to grow into a tree. The plant is used as show flowers and also has medicinal properties. It is often used in beauty and hair care products.
The flowers are large with oval-shaped petals. If you decide to plant a hibiscus indoors, make sure that you plant it in a place where there is adequate sunlight, as it loves warmth and produces more flowers this way. These plants mostly do not flower in the shade.
Soil
These plants need soil that is high in nutrients, and drain well. The soil must have a 6-6.5 pH level. You can also add mulch to the topmost layer of the soil.
These tropical plants mostly prefer sandy soil, as it drains well. Give the soil a lot of compost and organic material. If you notice that the area is not well drained, you can raise the bed by 5-10 inches.
Water
Watering the plant actually depends upon what kind of climate the plant is growing in. When they are planted in hot regions, they cannot tolerate extremely dry weather conditions. You should not flood its roots as they will rot, thus, killing the plant.
If the plant is not given enough water, the leaves will slowly start drooping. In cold regions, these plants might get affected by fungus, as it attacks the roots first. So, it is necessary that you water only as much as the plant needs. Excessive watering might kill the plant. If the roots are kept warm, these problems will not arise at all.
Fertilizers
The plants need a lot of fertilizer to produce bright and full blooms. Organic compounds are the best. When you plant your hibiscus, do not add fertilizers immediately.
You can add fertilizer after a month when it has gotten used to the soil and its location. If you want your plant to grow healthy, you should keep a check on the fertilizers that you provide it with; less fertilization may produce fewer flowers or no flowers at all.
If you decide to plant the hibiscus in the form of a tree, it should be planted outdoors where there is enough place. This is because the tree grows to a height of 4-5 feet. This also involves time-to-time fertilization.
To plant a hibiscus, soak the root ball in water for 8-10 hours, till it is well hydrated. Dig a hole, wider than the ball and deep enough for it to fit. Fill the hole with water and let it drain. Place the root ball in the hole and add mulch. Refill the hole with soil and water it.
These methods will help you grow a healthy plant. Make sure your plant has the right type of soil, is watered regularly, is fertilized on time, and pruned well. Growing hibiscus plants is an easy task if they are grown with care and looked after well.