Here are a few tips from our Master Growers on caring for your hibiscus plants:

Hibiscus are sensitive to changes in environment; they need time to adjust Hibiscus should be protected from hot afternoon sun for the first two weeks that they are in a new environment. They should be watered well but not allowed to stand in water. It is normal for leaves to yellow and buds to fall during periods of adjustment. Established plants require 4-5 hours direct sunlight per day. It is recommended planting hibiscus in containers to make it easier to protect them from temperatures below 32 degrees. If planted in the ground, a well drained soil is recommended. Fertilize with a water soluble 20-10-20 once a week or 15-10-15 once a month. Established plants require about ¼ cup to ½ cup of fertilizer per month. For younger or newly planted hibiscus, a handful is enough. Yellow leaves are normal unless they cover the entire plant. Excessive leaf yellowing is caused by over-fertilization, over-watering (root saturation), and extreme changes in temperature. Bud drop is caused by overabundance of water or fertilizer or the lack thereof. Sometimes, bud drop can be cured simply by moving the plant to another place in the garden. Hibiscus plants require magnesium which can be added in the form of Epsom salts, one tablespoon to a gallon of water weekly during the growing season.