Question
Is a tropical hibiscus a good house plant for a beginner gardener? Do you have
any care instructions that are specific to hibiscus? I have a south facing glass
door that gets tons of bright sunlight and was thinking of getting a few for just
inside it (it isn't used as a door but as a window) in my kitchen. Thanks.

Answer
Hi Melissa,

Hibiscus is not an easy plant, but it is not impossibly difficult either. But It sounds like you have one so let me provide you with the information so you have the best chance to be successful with it. If you are not successful, there are other easier indoor plants.

When indoors hibiscus needs lots of direct sunlight - a south-facing window. Keep the soil evenly moist at all times. It will bloom better if it is potbound, but that also means more frequent watering and fertilizing with any plant food that has a middle number higher in proportion to the other two (15-30-15, for example).

In late winter, prune the whole plant back to one-third its size and reduce the watering and fertilizer for about six weeks. Keep it in a cool location with temps in the mid 50's. This induced dormancy will encourage new growth and more blooms in the late spring and summer.

In the fall, gradually reduce water, fertilizer, and temperature to ease it into late winter dormancy. Be alert for white flies, aphids and spider mites.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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