Question
I have a large potted hibiscus plant that has bottom leaves turning yellow then dropping off.  The new growth looks very healthy and the plant is setting many buds. I first thought I had overwatered so cut back on water however leaves are still yellowing, several each day.  The plant is on an east facing patio which gets morning sun. I use Miracle Grow fertilizer about once a month during the growing season.  

Also, last growing season the buds would drop right just before opening.  Do you know what may have caused that?

Answer
Dear Ron, There are a few different reasons why your hibiscus has yellowing leaves, so let me run through them and you can try to adjust your plant accordingly.  First, does your pot have a drain hole?  This is very important, and it is also very important to empty any drain saucer that is under the hibiscus when the plant is watered.  Then when you water, be sure to water the plant thoroughly, remove any run off water, and then allow the plant to dry out thoroughly.  Hibiscus prefer to be on the drier side and too much water can cause yellow leaves.  It also may not be getting enough sun.  It should be getting about 6 hours of sun a day.  The bud drop may also indicate it isn't getting enough sun.  I used to have a lot of hibiscus and some of them on a shadier area would drop a lot of buds.  I'll bet that if you can increase the sunlight the hibiscus gets, and cut back a bit on the water then you will have no more problems with it.  I hope this information is helpful.  Good luck, Melissa