Question
I have just recently received a beautiful hibiscus plant as a gift. It has been planted in a relatively large pot and seems to be doing quite well at the moment. Summer's here are usually quite warm and humid, but the winters can be extremely cold (-25 to -30 degrees Celcius). I am wondering if I should bring my hibiscus in during the winter or if it would be better if I planted it in the garden and covered it with mulch?
Both my azalea's and roses do well over the winter, as long as they are well mulched and covered. I would like the best chance of having my Hibiscus next year.
Thank-you!

Answer
Hi Cara-Lyn,
Thanx for your question.  If your hibiscus is a tropical hibiscus, having glossy leaves and flowers with the stamens sticking out, you'll have to bring it indoors for the winter and keep it in a warm place.  If it is a hardy hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos) the hardiness could be questionable.  If you are overwintering azaleas successfully in Zone 4b then apply the same mulching technicques to your hibiscus and your plant should come back next year.  There are a few cultivars that are rated for frostier climates.  If you can find out where the plant was purchased you could probably get a more precise answer on the hardiness.  Bottom line for now is, if it is a hardy hibiscus, mulch it like you do the azaleas and you should be fine.  I hope this helps.
Tom