How to Care for Hibiscus Plants

Hibiscus thrive when you balance sun, water, and steady nutrition. Give them 6–8 hours of direct sun, deep but infrequent watering, and a consistent fertiliser routine during spring–summer. Prune lightly to shape and improve flowering, watch for sap-sucking pests, and ease off water and feeding in winter.

Growing Conditions for Healthy Hibiscus

Sunlight: Full sun is best—aim for 6–8+ hours daily. In very hot regions, gentle afternoon shade can prevent scorch in pots.

Soil & mix: Free-draining and fertile. In-ground: loosen soil, add coarse material for drainage if heavy. Pots: premium potting mix with chunky perlite/pine bark for air space.

Pots vs ground: Pots warm faster (great for growth) but dry out sooner; choose a large container with big drainage holes and raise it on feet.

Climate & aspect: A north-facing aspect (AU) maximises light. Shelter from strong wind to protect buds and blooms.

Watering Fundamentals

Deep, rhythmic watering: Soak thoroughly, then allow the top few cm to dry. Avoid “little and often.”
Summer cadence: Usually 2–3 deep waterings/week in pots (adjust for heat and wind); in-ground less often but deeply.
Drainage first: Empty saucers, never allow roots to sit in water—yellow leaves and drop follow waterlogging.

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Fertilising & Seasonal Care

Balanced feeding (core program): Apply a complete fertiliser every 2–3 weeks through spring and summer.
Use CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20 to supply even nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for lush foliage, strong roots, and reliable flower set.

Advanced flowering support: If plants show nutrient stress (pale new growth, weak buds) or you want maximal bloom performance, step up to
Advanced Formula NPK 4-18-38 + Calcium & Magnesium. The extra Ca/Mg supports leaf strength and prevents interveinal yellowing, while higher K aids bud formation and bloom longevity.

Application tips:

Liquid feeds suit pots—precise dosing, fast uptake, lower salt build-up.
Flush pots seasonally to avoid salts (run clean water until it drains freely).
Keep pH near neutral; overly alkaline mixes can lock out Fe/Mg.

Pruning, Repotting & Mulching

Prune: Light shape prune in early spring to stimulate branching and more flower sites. Remove dead/diseased wood anytime.
Repot: Every 1–2 years for container plants; step up one pot size and refresh the mix.
Mulch: 3–5 cm organic mulch in beds to moderate moisture and heat (keep clear of the stem).

Seasonal Care (Australia)

Spring: Resume feeding and deep watering as growth restarts; prune lightly.
Summer: Peak growth—maintain 2–3-weekly feeding and consistent wet–dry watering rhythm.
Autumn: Taper feeding and watering as temperatures drop.
Winter: Pause fertiliser. Water sparingly (keep soil just barely moist). Protect pots from cold snaps (<10 °C).

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Hibiscus FAQs

How much sun do hibiscus need?
Full sun—aim for 6–8+ hours daily. Less light = fewer flowers.

How often should I water?
In warm months, deeply 2–3 times per week for pots; in-ground plants need less frequent but thorough watering. Let the top layer dry between waterings.

What’s the best fertiliser?
Feed every 2–3 weeks with CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20.
For heavier flowering and micronutrient support, upgrade to
Advanced Formula NPK 4-18-38 + CaMg.

Why are my leaves turning yellow?
Often watering/drainage issues or nutrient deficiencies (Mg/Fe). Improve drainage, resume balanced feeding, and consider CaMg support.

Can hibiscus grow in pots?
Absolutely—use a large, free-draining mix, feed regularly, and keep up with deep watering in summer.

When do I prune?
Lightly in early spring to shape and encourage branching. Remove dead wood anytime.