Growing Hibiscus Indoors | Hibiscus Care Indoors

With its bright, colorful blooms and diverse uses, hibiscus is a fascinating flower. Whether you're interested in growing and caring for hibiscus plants, the health benefits of hibiscus tea, or the cultural significance of hibiscus in different parts of the world, there's something for everyone to discover. In this blog, we'll dive into the world of hibiscus and explore all the different ways this amazing plant can enhance our lives.

What is Hibiscus? 

Hibiscus is a plant genus that belongs to the family Malvaceae. It includes hundreds of species of flowering plants that are native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The most well-known species of hibiscus is Hibiscus sabdariffa, which is commonly used to make hibiscus tea. The plant is known for its large, brightly colored flowers, which come in a variety of shades, including red, pink, yellow, and white. 

The leaves of the plant are often deeply lobed and have a distinct, tropical appearance. Hibiscus is a popular ornamental plant, often used in gardens and as a landscaping feature. Additionally, it has a number of medicinal uses and is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.

Guide to Growing Hibiscus Indoors

Growing hibiscus indoors can be a great way to add a touch of tropical beauty to your home. While hibiscus is typically grown outdoors in warm, sunny climates, with proper care and attention, it's possible to grow this plant successfully indoors as well. 

The plants require more attention than some other popular flowers, but mastering the basics of hibiscus care is manageable, and their vibrant blooms are well worth the extra effort. To help you grow your own hibiscus with confidence, we have put together this comprehensive guide.

Choose the Right Container For Growing Hibiscus Indoors

When growing hibiscus, using containers can be an ideal option, particularly for those who find it easier to care for their plants in this way. Container gardening allows you to move your hibiscus plants around, ensuring their needs are met. If you find that the chosen spot for your hibiscus isn't receiving enough sunlight, you can quickly transfer it to a sunnier spot. Moreover, during the colder months, you can bring it indoors and overwinter it, so you can enjoy it for another summer.

When selecting a container for your hibiscus plant, it is essential to choose the right size. Hibiscus prefers a slightly snug fit around its roots, so a smaller pot with proper drainage holes is more suitable. If you're keeping it indoors, place it on a sunny windowsill, but be careful not to let it touch the glass, as the sun's heat can burn the plant.

Conditions for Growing Hibiscus Indoors

The tropical hibiscus requires specific growing conditions to thrive, and it is essential to provide the plant with the right environment. Here are the primary growing conditions for tropical hibiscus:

Enough Light: During the summer, place the plant outside and gradually acclimate it to more sunlight. In the winter, it is crucial to provide as much direct light as possible.

Regular Watering: During the summer, water the hibiscus plant regularly, but ensure that it has excellent drainage to prevent the mix from becoming soggy. In the winter, let the plant dry almost completely before watering again.

Temperature: The hibiscus plant cannot withstand even a few nights below 50 F, so it is vital to move it indoors when the temperature consistently drops to 55 Fahrenheit. Ideally, the plant prefers temperatures between 50 Fahrenheit and 75 Fahrenheit.

The Best Indoor Hibiscus Soil

Hibiscus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. A good soil mix for hibiscus plants should be light and airy to promote root growth and allow for adequate water drainage. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand or vermiculite can work well. Adding organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, can also provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. It's best to avoid heavy or compacted soils, which can lead to root rot and other issues.

Pruning and Pest Care for Hibiscus

Pruning is an important part of caring for hibiscus plants. Regular pruning helps to maintain the plant's shape, encourage new growth, and prevent pest problems. In late winter, use sterilized pruning shears to trim back any leggy stems and encourage bushy growth. Prune out a third of the old wood, and trim the stems to half their original length each spring.

According to the Missouri Botanical Garden, outdoor hibiscus can grow up to 10 to 12 feet tall, but indoor hibiscus should be pruned back to 5 to 6 feet tall. Ensure that your indoor hibiscus is in a draft-free location to promote healthy growth.

Pest care is also important for hibiscus plants. Regularly check for pests like spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids, and treat them immediately to prevent infestations. You can use a commercial insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests. Additionally, avoid overwatering your hibiscus plant to prevent fungal diseases, and ensure that it has good air circulation. 

The Best Indoor Hibiscus Fertilizer 

For a strong start of your hibiscus plant to the growing season, it's essential to use a balanced fertilizer like a 20-20-20 mix in the spring. This type of fertilizer provides a well-rounded blend of nutrients. You can opt to stick with a balanced fertilizer throughout the growing season or switch to a 12-4-8 mix.

Hibiscus plants require higher levels of nitrogen and potassium, represented by the first and third numbers in the fertilizer mix ratio. Choosing a fertilizer mix specifically formulated for hibiscuses, such as Miracle-Gro or other similar options, will provide your plant with the essential nutrients it needs to thrive.

Use a high-quality, water-soluble fertilizer that is specifically designed for hibiscus plants. The fertilizer should contain a balanced blend of essential nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Make sure your indoor hibiscus plant receives the necessary nutrients to grow healthy and vibrant.

Here are some tips for fertilizing your hibiscus:

1. Constantly water your hibiscus plant before applying fertilizer to prevent fertilizer burn.
2. Apply the fertilizer on the ground, about 1 to 2 feet away from the base of the plant, to ensure that the nutrients reach the entire root system.
3. Consider using slow-release fertilizer during the early spring, after the first round of flowers dies back, midsummer, and fall or early winter. 
4. Apply fertilizer every 2 weeks to ensure that your plant receives a consistent supply of nutrients.
5. After applying the fertilizer, water your hibiscus thoroughly to dissolve the fertilizer and help distribute it throughout the root system.

By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your hibiscus plant is getting the proper nutrition it needs to grow healthy and produce beautiful blooms.

Coming With Another Blog Soon

With proper care and attention, hibiscus plants can thrive and bloom beautifully indoors, adding a touch of tropical beauty to any home. Remember to provide them with the right amount of sunlight, water, and nutrients, and to protect them from pests and diseases. With these tips and some patience, you'll be rewarded with vibrant and stunning hibiscus flowers all year round. So go ahead, bring some of the outdoors inside and enjoy the beauty of hibiscus plants in your home!