Question
I bought this tree and i notice when i leave it outside it blooms when i take it in if its 2 windy leaves start to turn brown. Should i give its special food to take care of it in the winter. I live in upstate New York

Answer
Hi Linda,

Your Hibiscus prefers lots of bright light that it gets only outdoors and it also prefers a consistent environment. That is the difficulty with Hibiscus trees in your area. They thrive outside in the mild weather, but deteriorate indoors in the winter.

In the winter, allow it to dry out more than usual and stop fertilizing and just try to keep it alive until the spring. Prune it back sharply just before you move it outside when the warm weather returns.

Summer is its season and in winter it languishes.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]