How to Plant Double-Bloom Hibiscus

Double-bloom hibiscus thrives in warm tropical climates and comes in a wide variety of stunning colors. These wide-bloomed plants can be planted in the ground in certain areas and grow well in containers in cooler climates. Cooler climates require moving the hibiscus inside during the winter into a controlled environment. Planting double-bloom hibiscus is the same as for any other variety of hibiscus plant. Let's look at how to plant a double-bloom hibiscus.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Potting soil Peat moss Gravel Container or prepared garden Garden hose and water Mulch Clippers

Garden Planting

1. Choose a location that allows full sun and protection from strong winds. Prepare your garden by removing all weeds and mixing peat moss into the top layers of soil.

2. Dig a hole two times the size of the root ball of the plant. Place the potted hibiscus into the hole to measure for adequate size. The top of the root ball should be about an inch below the soil level.

3. Clip the outside of the plastic pot holding the hibiscus, being careful not to damage any roots. Peel back the plastic pot and lift the hibiscus free. Loosen the soil around the plant to free the roots and encourage root expansion. You can also direct a light stream of water at the root ball to stimulate the roots and loosen pot-bound roots.

4. Lower the root ball into the hole and add dirt around the root ball. Press down firmly with your hands to tighten the soil around the base of the plant. Continue filling and firming the soil until reaching garden level.

5. Create a 2-inch-deep mound of mulch around the base of the plant to retain water. Extend mulch out into the rest of the garden to promote water retention in the soil.

6. Water deeply around the base of the plant for a few minutes to ensure that water reaches the roots.

Container Planting

7. Check to make sure there are drainage holes in the bottom of the planter. Planters should be about two times the size of the hibiscus root ball.

8. Fill the bottom of the planter with 2 inches of gravel to encourage drainage through the bottom of the pot. Gravel also blocks the holes to prevent soil loss.

9. Clip away the plastic pot containing the double-bloom hibiscus and free the root ball. Work your fingers into the soil to loosen the roots or use a gentle stream of water to wash away some soil from the root ball.

10. Fill the planter half full with potting soil and peat moss. Mix together and place the plant inside the container. The top of the root ball should be roughly 2 to 3 inches below the rim of the planter. Add or remove dirt to reach this position.

11. Gradually add more dirt to the planter, firming the soil with your hands until the dirt level reaches below the rim. Finish with a 2-inch layer of mulch to encourage water retention.

12. Water the plant thoroughly. Monitor water needs closely because container plants dry out more quickly than garden plants.

References

• Home Herb Garden.com