Saturday, November 19, 2011

What is the best kind of fertilizer to use for hibiscus?

I've had some for years and never fertilized them. Anyone know? Someone told me a fertilizer like that used for azaeleas, camillias, that is on for plants that like more acid soils.

What is the best kind of fertilizer to use for hibiscus?
Hibiscus require regular feedings every week during the months of March thru October, which is when they growth the most. Fertilize lightly once a week during this period and once a month beginning in November thru February.





Choose a fertilizer with a low phosphorous value, such as a 20-5-20 (20% Nitrogen + 5% Phosphorous + 20%Potassium) or something like a 7-2-7. I've been told that too much phosphorous produces lots of leaves but few flowers. Hibiscus also need trace elements, especially iron, copper, boron and magnesium. The pH of the planting mix should be between 6.0 to 6.8 (slightly acid).





Never fertilize dried out plants or you could possibly damage the roots. Try rehydrating the soil by putting the pot in a bucket with a few inches of water and then add a few drops of dish soap to break water tension--this will allow the water to better penetrate the dried out soil. Leave pot for 30 minutes in bucket then return to planter. When the soil is once again moist through you may fertilize.





As you may already know, hibiscus prefers humidity so you might have to mist your plants with a hand-held spray bottle.





Hope this answered your question. Good luck and happy growing!
Reply:yep.. Miracid is a good choice.
Reply:I have a beautiful hibiscus that I use miracle grow on once a month. I dilute it with water in an old milk jug and water my hibiscus. . .


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