Question
I think I know how to harvest the seed from my gorgeous perennial hybiscus.  But would cutting off the seedpods (as you do on crepe myrtles) allow more blooms to form?  Or do they only bloom until the seed pods form (which mine are doing now).  I live in southeastern Mississippi.
Could you please also give me the correct way to get the seed (timing, etc) and best way to start the plants?    Thanks

Answer
Hi Paulette,
Thanx for your question.  I lived in Ft. Walton Beach back int the mid-80s. Love the Gulf Coast!  

Cutting off spent blooms will not increase blooming.  So, if you see seed pods forming, cutting them off won't make the shrub bloom more.  They tend to bloom until it gets too cool.  In the deep South, that could mean until around Thanksgiving to Christmastime depending upon your location.

Seeds are easy to start.  Make sure the seed have been dry for at least 30 days.  Plant the seeds by pressing them into a pot of potting soil that is moist but not soggy and make sure they are covered by about 1/4 inch of soil.  Keep it warm 70-80 F.  The seeds sprout rapidy within 10 days.  To grow the best plants the seedlings must be place under 8 inches of 40-watt shop light (flourescent).  As soon as you can get the seedlings outdoors do so because they  become leggy (overly long and often spend themselves out to death).  As soon as you have no more danger of frost.  Take the seedlings and place them in an area that is free from direct sunlight, extremes in heat and cold, dryness or wetness, rain, hail, wind, etc.  After 10 days, you may plant the seedlings wherever you wish.  I hope this helps.
Tom