Question
Hi.  I have a beautiful red hibiscus tree in my front south facing window.  It is still in the department store pot as I'm not sure if I can replant it while in flower.  I've had it for 2 months and it tends to have 6-9 flowers on it each day BUT.. the flowers only last for 1 day each.  Is this due to too much water or is this normal? I tend to water it every second day roughly 1-2 cups of water (as I beleive the store pot dries out quickly). What would be your advice on keeping this in bloom and healthy?  Many thanks.

Alexi

Answer
Hi Alexi,

You seem to be doing just fine.

You are correct not to disturb the roots when it is in bloom. In fact, potbound plants flower more prolifically, so you may want to keep it in that pot even after it finishes flowering.

Each flower only lasts for a day, so be happy that you are getting so many new ones each day.

Potbound plants do dry out more frequently and that is a good thing. I suggest that you thoroughly soak the soil each time you water. That way it may go a little longer in between waterings. You can fertilize it monthly at half the recommended dilution rate. I assume you have it in a sunny location.

That's about all you need to know for now.

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

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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

If this information has been helpful, please remember to give me an AllExperts rating and nomination.