Many of us are rediscovering hibiscus. After several
years of severe winters hibiscus have lost some of their
popularity. But new selections showing up at garden
centers are reviving the interest. I have found them at a
number of local sales areas.
Recently I received
two new plants grown by Costa Farms of Florida. The label
says the blooms are over sized and they are, measuring
eight inches or more in diameter. The plants keep
producing one vibrant bloom after another. One variety is
Rum Runner Remix, a bright yellow with a red center.
Another variety with yellow edged white petals and red
center is Pinka Colada. Both are very vigorous.
I
am growing mine in containers. Each is in about a 3-gallon
container now but it won't be low before they
Hibiscus Picture: Tom MacCubbin
are going to need a pot double this size. I expect
the plants to continue flowering until the weather turns
cool.
Keep hibiscus moist, but not wet for best
growth. It they dry out, hibiscus can quickly wilt and
flower production decreases. Also, feed every month or
two. I suggest you use a slow release fertilizer like
Osmocote or Miracle-Gro Shake'n Feed. These are slow
release products and one application can feed your
hibiscus for several months following label instructions.
Hibiscus can be grown in the ground too but keep
the winter protection handy. One member of the Hibiscus
Society says he builds tepees with plastic covers to
shelter his individual plants. Then he adds light bulbs as
needed to provide heat. I think I will keep mine in
containers and then they can be moved to a warmer spot
when the severe cold weather warnings are sounded.
