Question
QUESTION: Hi Justin,

I purchased a Hibscus plant last spring from a local department store. When I purchased the plant it was so beautiful, full of green leaves and colorful flowers.
This is the first Hibscus plant I have brought into my home. Unfortunately within a week or so the leaves on the plant started to drop out. Within a month or so all I had left was the bare twigs.
I have kept the plant with hopes that it will start to bloom again but I feel that I am fighting a loosing battle.
I would like to try again with a new plant but want to know any tips in caring for a Hibscus plant?

Thanks

ANSWER: Hello Candice,

Heres a few basic care tips for hibiscus that should make your next try more successful and may even save your first plant.

First you'll want to make sure that the plants are always kept at between 60-90 degrees F. If it gets too cold or hot they'll let you know by dropping leaves and flower buds. They also like a few hours of direct sun each day. 2-3 hours in the morning or evening should be fine. Again it will let you know if its getting too much sun by the leaves getting real droopy. When you water the plant give it a good soak until water runs out of the bottom of the pot. Let the soil dry out a bit before watering again the top 1/2-1inch or so of soil should be allowed to dry. Don't let the pot sit in standing water as that can cause root rot. In the winter take extra special care to not over water. You should also feed it regularly during the growing season. Any general houseplant fertilizer will do and I believe there are specialized hibiscus feeds as well.
These really are beautiful plants and I hope your next attempt has better success. If you have any other questions feel free to contact me again.

Good Luck,
Justin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Justin, It's me candice again. U mentioned growing season in your response, so you mind to tell me when that season runs?
Also how do i know if I can still try to grow the curent Hibscus plant that I have. It has not bloomed any leaves or flowers for months.

Answer
Hello,

The growing season is between April and October, give or take a month on either end.
For your first hibiscus you could cut one of the branches to see if its still alive on the inside. If its all dry and brittle its most likely too late. On the off chance that it is still alive you should only allow it to grow leaves. If it tries to grow flowers cut them off so it can put all its energy into recovery.

Good Luck,
Justin