Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- Hibiscus Plant(s)
- Shovel
- Soil
- Rocks (Gravel)
- Fertilizer (Compost)
- Mulch
- Water
Step1
Purchase your hibiscus. You may have to do a little research to find the best hibiscus variety to work in your growing area, but this can easily be accomplished online by doing specific searches, through talking to professionals at your local garden centers (or nurseries) or as a result of reading up on hibiscus in your local library. Once you have found the hibiscus you want, buy them. It is best to plant hibiscus in the Spring.
Step2
Locate the best sunny spot for outdoor planting. Hibiscuses do best in areas that have full sun. More tropical climates can have partially shaded areas, but the hibiscus should be placed in an area with low wind as well. You can use walls or trellises as wind blocks as long as they do not obstruct the sunlight. Dig a hole for your hibiscus that is twice the size of the root ball.
Step3
Provide proper drainage and the best soil for growing hibiscus. The soil that you grow your hibiscus in is extremely critical. It must provide adequate drainage. Select areas that drain well or are elevated, if there is a possibility of the roots becoming saturated. You can add rocks (lava rocks work great) and gravel to the bottom of the hole to provide a foundation for your hibiscus. Add a layer of soil and compost. Place the hibiscus in the hole allowing the root ball to be slightly above ground level. Fill in the area with more compost and soil. The pH level of the soil should be around 6 to 7. You should add nutrients in the form of fertilizers or organic compost regularly (monthly) to keep your hibiscus blooming throughout the season.
Step4
Give your hibiscus plenty of water and mulch. It is crucial to provide enough water as the hibiscus thrives in moisture and high humidity. It is better to provide less often, but more complete soakings to your hibiscus than to water frequently without much moisture penetration. Water extra during the growing season and less often in the cooler months. It will also help if you add mulch to your hibiscus. Mulch will retain the moisture in the soil and it will furthermore add aeration and nutrients