How to Grow Hardy Hibiscus
Growing Hibiscus acetosella
Out of the three types of hibiscus that gardeners normally choose for their landscaping, the hardy hibiscus acetosella has gained popularity for its ability to stand colder temperatures while offering a tropical feel to more northern gardening.
With blooms measuring up to the size of dinner plates it is little wonder why hibiscus enthralls its followers so deeply. This tropical looking plant is like the pied piper of the flower world and a real showstopper at that.
The Right Soil for Hardy Hibiscus
Hardy hibiscus requires well-drained soil and plenty of moisture during its active growing season. Dig a hole twice as deep and wide as the root ball and backfill with rich organic compost. Hibiscuses are heavy feeders and require plenty of food while growing to ensure they have ample reserves for this and next year’s blooms. A fertilizer of 150-200ppm Nitrogen will help the plants grow vigorously and ensure good bloom set.
General Growing Conditions for Hardy Hibiscus
Make sure to plant hibiscus the same depth as where they were growing in their pots. Hardy hibiscus require full sun in order to bloom to their fullest and most beautiful. Make sure each plant gets plenty of water but does not become water logged as this can cause root rot and the sudden death of the plant.
In climates colder than what has been listed on the zone hardiness map for hardy hibiscus, the zone may possibly be stretched a bit further if extremely well draining soil is supplied and the plants are not allowed to get sodden during the winter. A thick cover of mulch would also be helpful.
How to Propagate Hardy Hibiscus
Hardy hibiscus can be propagated from stem cuttings, seeds, as well as air layering and root division.
Air Layering Hardy Hibiscus
Simple remove the outer layer of bark by scratching until the white inner layer has been exposed. Dust the entire area with rooting hormone and then wrap in damp sphagnum moss and plastic. Check the area frequently to ensure the moss has not dried out. When many roots appear clip the limb below the new roots and pot in a well draining potting mix. Keep well watered but avoid waterlogging.
Rooting Hardy Hibiscus from Stem Cuttings
Remove cuttings 4-6 inches in length scraping the outer bark just as in air layering. Dust with rooting hormone and carefully pot in good, well draining soil.
Growing Hardy Hibiscus from Seeds
Allow seed heads to dry on the plant and then remove. Clean out all the chaff and soak in water for several hours. Plant 1 inch deep and give plenty of sun. Keep the soil watered but not soaking wet. When seedlings get several true leaves, gently remove from their seed trays and pot up into individual pots. Pinch back their top growth to further facilitate branching for stronger plants with more blooms. Plants may not bloom true to the color and shape of their parents.
Common Pests and Diseases of Hardy Hibiscus
It is better to prevent any problems as once an outbreak occurs it tends to be harder to get under control. When planting hardy hibiscus ensure there is plenty of airflow between plants and enough sun to prevent fungal growth and whitefly infestations. If a plant has been affected by any of these diseases or pests, a local feed store should carry the correct medicine for the sick hibiscus.
- Japanese Beetles
- Powdery Mildew
- Aphids
- Mites
- Sawfly larvae
- Whiteflies
Prolonging a hardy hibiscuses bloom season is a simple matter of plenty of fertilizer and the judicious deadheading of any fading flowers. Clip off any crossing or diseased branches from hibiscus.
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