Hibiscus Assorted

• Hibiscus originated in warm temperate and tropical regions, with over 200 species ranging from small shrubs to large trees. The assorted collection typically includes popular varieties with different flower colours and forms.
• Each flower lasts only one day but plants produce continuous blooms throughout the warm months. The large, showy flowers feature prominent stamens and can reach 15-20cm across in some varieties.
• Fast-growing deciduous or evergreen shrubs that can reach 1-3 metres depending on variety and pruning. Popular for their reliability, long flowering season, and ability to attract pollinators to Australian gardens.
• Gardeners love hibiscus for their tropical appearance, low maintenance once established, and spectacular flower display. The assorted collection offers colour variety without needing to choose just one shade.

• Water 2-3 times weekly during spring and summer, checking soil moisture 5cm down before watering. Reduce to weekly watering in winter, ensuring soil never completely dries out.
• Position in morning sun with afternoon shade in hot climates, or full sun in cooler areas. Indoor plants need bright, indirect light near east or west-facing windows.
• Use well-draining potting mix with added compost, or improve garden soil with organic matter and ensure good drainage. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.
• Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertiliser, switching to low-nitrogen fertiliser in autumn. Cease feeding in winter when growth slows down.
• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and size, removing spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Hard pruning can be done in late winter before new growth begins.
• Increase humidity for indoor plants with pebble trays or grouping with other plants. Outdoor plants benefit from mulching to retain soil moisture.
• Protect from frost by moving containers indoors or covering garden plants with frost cloth. In tropical areas, provide extra water during hot, dry periods.

• Provide morning sun with afternoon shade in hot Australian climates to prevent flower fade and leaf scorch. In cooler regions, full sun promotes better flowering and compact growth.
• Water deeply 2-3 times per week during growing season, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter but never let plants become completely dry.
• Maintain humidity around potted plants by grouping together or using pebble trays filled with water. Mist foliage early morning in dry conditions but avoid wetting flowers.
• Protect from frost and cold winds by moving containers indoors or covering garden plants. Ideal temperature range is 18-30°C for optimal growth and flowering.
• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth - hibiscus flowers on new wood so regular pruning promotes more blooms.

• Aphids cluster on new growth and buds - spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil early morning or evening. Remove heavily infested shoots and encourage beneficial insects with companion plantings.
• Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or poor drainage - reduce watering frequency and ensure pots have drainage holes. Check soil moisture with finger test before watering.
• Scale insects appear as small brown bumps on stems - scrape off manually or apply horticultural oil spray. Quarantine affected plants to prevent spread to other hibiscus.
• Bud drop occurs from stress, temperature changes, or inconsistent watering - maintain steady moisture and protect from hot afternoon sun. Mulch around plants to regulate soil temperature.