Certain varieties of hibiscus flowers can grow as large as the average dinner plate.
The hibiscus is a plant native to warm climates and tropical areas. It produces large flowers which last for only one day. The plant makes up for the short-lived nature of its flowers by giving off over 100 blooms per year. The hibiscus does most of its blooming in the warm months. If you want your hibiscus to produce flowers when it is not naturally in bloom, you may force the plant to bloom. This can produce colorful flowers almost year-round. However, letting your plant rest for a few months during the year is best for its long-term health.
Instructions
1. Bring your plant indoors before the first frost. If you wish to have the hibiscus tree bloom all year, it will need to be in a pot. This will allow you to move the plant to warmth before it goes dormant.
2. Place the hibiscus tree in front of a window which receives a lot of natural sunlight in a room with fluorescent light in the room. The short days of winter do not cast enough daylight to force a hibiscus tree to bloom.
3. Water the hibiscus tree as soon as the soil has been dry for a day or two. Hibiscus plants do not like to sit in wet or soggy soil. Do not allow the soil to puddle with water; stop watering when the soil is moist.
4. Feed the hibiscus tree a water-soluble fertilizer with every watering. Hibiscus plants need a lot of nutrients to bloom. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for correct application of fertilizer.
5. Watch for spider mites and aphids on your hibiscus tree. Both of these pests can cause severe bud loss on a hibiscus. If you notice any pests on your hibiscus, wash the hibiscus with a spray of warm water from a spray bottle. A severe infestation may need an insecticide application.
6. Cut off any leafless shoots, using a pair of pruning shears. Empty shoots still require energy from a plant, thus taking away energy needed for blooms.
7. Run a humidifier in the room with the hibiscus tree. Air that is too dry can cause damage to a hibiscus tree. Keep the temperature of your home between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit to mimic tropical conditions.
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