How to Grow Hibiscus Trees

Usually found in warm climates, there are over 200 species of hibiscus trees around the globe. Hibiscus plants are especially popular in tropical regions. Many people like hibiscus trees for their large, bright flowers, which are just perfect for decorating homes. Moreover, hibiscus trees can even be made into tea and the strong bark of the plant is often used in various ropes, fishing nets and grass skirts. You can grow hibiscus trees indoors and outdoors.

Things You'll Need

• Hibiscus seed or tree
• Shovel
• Trowel
• Fertilizer

Instructions

1. Decide where to grow your hibiscus tree. Hibiscus trees thrive in warm, sunny areas so make sure that your plant will have plenty of sunlight.

2. Pull up any weeds or plants around the location where you want your hibiscus tree to be. Weeds and plants will compete with your hibiscus tree for nutrients and water if they're allowed to remain rooted. Remove the weeds and their entire roots to prevent them from growing in the same spot later on.

3. Dig a hole into the soil where you want to grow your hibiscus tree. If you bought a hibiscus tree rather than a seed, make sure the hole is two to three times wider than the roots and deep enough so that the roots can be placed comfortably into the soil. You may also want to fill the hole half full with water, letting the water sink into the soil, so that the ground will be moist enough for the hibiscus tree.

4. Drop the seed into the newly created hole. If you have a hibiscus tree, make sure the stem's base is at the same level as the ground when you place the plant into the soil. Gently pat down the dirt around the tree with a trowel to get rid of air pockets.

5. Slowly water your new hibiscus tree each week to ensure that the water will reach the plant's roots. Every other month, fertilize your tree using a fertilizer that either has 5 percent phosphorus, 15 percent nitrogen, and 10 percent potassium or 5 percent phosphorus, 15 percent nitrogen, and 15 percent potassium. If your tree is small and still in its growing stage, only give it half an ounce of fertilizer. However, if the hibiscus tree has reached maximum growth, you can feed the plant a half a pound of fertilizer.

Tips & Warnings

• Hibiscus trees need lots of water and sunlight in order to thrive. Regulating how much your plant receives will keep it healthy.

References

• Garden Guides: How to Plant Hibiscus Trees