Growing a hibiscus plant in a pot can add vibrant, tropical flair to any outdoor space. With their huge, colorful blooms, hibiscus are ideal for container gardening. This comprehensive guide provides tips for selecting the perfect hibiscus variety, choosing the right pot and soil, proper watering and fertilizing, overwintering, and more.
Choosing a Hibiscus Variety
With over 200 species, there is a hibiscus variety suited to almost every climate
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For cold climates, choose a hardy hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos) that can withstand freezing temperatures Varieties like ‘Summerific Holy Grail’ and ‘Berry Awesome’ are root hardy to zone 5
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In warm climates, go for a tropical hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) that can’t tolerate temps below 50°F. Pick a prolific bloomer like ‘Jamaican Fire Glow’ or ‘Blue Chiffon’ for maximum flowers.
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Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus) is another great option hardy to zones 5-9 with varieties like ‘Sugar Tip’ and ‘Red Heart’.
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For small spaces, compact varieties like ‘Little Penny’ and ‘Baby Vamp’ fit nicely in pots.
Consider bloom color, plant size, and growth habit when selecting a variety. Talk to your local nursery to find the best hibiscus for your climate and container size.
Choosing the Right Pot
Pick a container with good drainage holes that’s only slightly larger than the hibiscus’s root ball. A pot that’s too big can lead to root rot. Heavy materials like ceramic retain more moisture while plastic and resin dry out faster. For large plants, use wheeled pots for easy moving. Aim for at least a 12-16 inch pot for most varieties. Make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the plant’s mature size.
The Right Potting Mix
A lightweight, commercial potting mix is ideal for hibiscus containers. It will drain better than regular garden soil to prevent soggy roots. Look for a mix containing peat moss, perlite, vermiculite or coconut coir to retain moisture while still permitting drainage. You can amend bagged mix with extra perlite or sand for improved porosity.
How to Plant Hibiscus in a Pot
Fill the container about 1/3 full with moistened potting soil. Carefully remove the hibiscus from its nursery pot, gently loosening any circling roots. Place in the pot with the top of the root ball about 1-2 inches below the rim. Fill sides with more mix, firming it around the roots to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom.
Sun and Location
Place hibiscus pots in full sun, ideally 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily. Morning sun is gentler than hot afternoon rays. Shelter from strong winds which can damage branches and blossoms. Turn the pots regularly so growth remains even on all sides. Bring indoors if temps drop below 45-50°F.
Watering and Fertilizing
Hibiscus like consistently moist but not soggy soil. Check pots daily and water when the top few inches become dry. Potting mix dries out faster than garden soil. Add water until it drains from the bottom to soak the entire root zone. Reduce watering in winter.
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during spring through fall. Look for a formula with slightly higher potassium and lower phosphorus levels. Granular, slow-release fertilizer at planting provides longer-lasting nutrition.
Deadheading for More Blooms
Deadhead spent hibiscus flowers as soon as they fade by pinching or snipping them off. This diverts the plant’s energy into producing more buds instead of forming seed pods. Consistent deadheading keeps potted hibiscus continually covered in flowers.
Repotting Hibiscus
Repot rootbound hibiscus every 2-3 years in early spring. Slide the plant from its container and trim off any circled roots before repotting in fresh soil. Choose a pot only 2-4 inches wider than the current size. Fertilize a few weeks after repotting to stimulate new growth.
Pruning Hibiscus
In spring, prune out any dead or damaged growth. Lightly trim to shape and contain size as needed. Avoid heavy pruning which removes flower buds. With potted plants, you can prune anytime since they are protected from cold weather.
Overwintering Hibiscus Pots
Tropical hibiscus must be brought indoors once night temperatures reach 50°F or so. Provide bright, indirect light from a sunny window. Limit watering over winter to prevent root rot. Resume fertilizing in spring before moving back outside.
Hardy pots can remain outdoors in winter except during freezing weather. Place in a protected area and cover with insulating materials like leaves or burlap. Water sparingly, just enough to keep roots from drying out completely. Cut back on fertilizer until spring growth resumes.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hibiscus are relatively pest and disease resistant. Aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs may sometimes infest plants. Treat with insecticidal soap sprays or neem oil. Ensure pots have good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal problems like root rot.
FAQs
How big of a pot does a hibiscus need?
12-16 inches wide is ideal for most varieties. Dwarfs like ‘Miniflora Fiesta’ only need a 10 inch pot. Larger varieties may need 18-24 inch containers.
When will my hibiscus bloom?
Potted hibiscus typically bloom from early summer through fall, taking a break in peak winter. Tropicals in warm climates can flower year-round. Hardy types bloom on new growth so prune in late winter to maximize flowers.
Should I keep my hibiscus plant inside or outside?
Keep tropical hibiscus pots outdoors in warm weather, moving them inside before temps drop below 45-50°F. Hardy hibiscus only need shelter on exceptionally cold winter nights. They regrow each spring.
How often should I water my potted hibiscus?
Check soil daily, watering when the top few inches become dry. This might be every 1-3 days in hot weather or less frequently in cooler temps. Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
Enjoying Hibiscus All Season
With proper care, potted hibiscus will reward you with months of bold, tropical blooms even in small spaces. Follow this guide for successfully growing hibiscus in containers year after year. Let these exotic beauties bring the tropics to your patio or deck with their vibrant, enormous flowers.
Choose the Right Potting Mix
Choosing an acidic soil is important for plant growth.
Potting soil made specifically for hibiscuses is commonly available and not difficult to find. This will typically work with most species, but there are some factors to consider.
If you are using a clay pot, you will want a potting mix that holds water well, whereas, with a plastic pot, drainage is imperative. Mixing a bit of coarse sand or extra perlite with your soil will be helpful for those plants in plastic or ceramic pots.
Hibiscuses like acidic soil. The right pH is important in terms of making the nutrients in the soil and fertilizer available for the plant to absorb. To make your own potting mix at home mix equal parts perlite, peat moss, and vermiculite. You can add in some compost to increase the acidity and enrich the soil.
Keep an Eye Out for Pests
Keep an eye on your hibiscus for signs of pest problems.
Hibiscuses are naturally resistant to pests and diseases, but this doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to have a pest problem.
There are a handful of insects that are known to be fond of hibiscus sap. Aphids are the most common garden insect you’ll encounter. Whiteflies, thrips, and mealybugs are also known to feast on hibiscus sap.
The best way to deal with pests is by keeping an eye on your plant and noticing changes early. Signs of infestation are black sooty mold, curling or yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. Most of these insects can be dealt with by using neem oil or insecticidal soaps.