Everblooming Character

• The hibiscus is everblooming, meaning it continues to flower for a long time when given the proper care.
• Light is the primary factor affecting this everblooming character. The more natural light the hibiscus receives, the more frequently it flowers.
• Although everblooming, the individual flowers last only one to two days after opening. It is natural for the flowers to close (roll up) and drop right after opening. This eliminates the need to remove spent blossoms from the plants.

• Sunshine should be provided at least four hours each day.
• Plants must be placed on windowsills or sunny porches for best everblooming performance. Otherwise, flowers will not likely develop unless it’s spring or summer when natural light increases.
• Flowering will be less in winter since light is limited.

• Hibiscus should never be allowed to dry out or wilt. This will cause leaf yellowing and flower bud drop.
• Always keep the root medium slightly moist. Water thoroughly by pouring water into the top of the pot until it runs out of the bottom. The plant should be heavier after a thorough watering. Do not let plants sit in excess water for more than one hour. Remove saucers or decorative pot covers and pour off any excess water.

• December through February: Fertilize only once with any liquid houseplant fertilizer at the lower rates given on the label. Apply as directed for a normal watering.
• March through November: In this higher light period, fertilize monthly. Use any liquid houseplant fertilizer at the higher rates as directed on the label.

• Your TradeWinds Hibiscus has been specially treated to keep its growth compact and in proportion to its container, but transplanting or pruning may be required after a year.
• Dramatic increases in watering frequency are a sign to repot your plant. Remove the plant from the pot and inspect the root system. Masses of encircling, intertwining roots further indicate the need to transplant.
• Transplanting to the next larger container size can be done any time of year and is often done in spring when new growth is stimulated by the longer, brighter days of summer.
• Plant into any well-drained commercial potting mix.
• Prune only in April or May so that new shoot growth will develop in the long, bright summer days.
• Cut back to shape the plant as desired, allowing three to four leaves per stem to remain after cutback.

• For all practical purposes, TradeWinds Hibiscus should be considered a blooming houseplant. These TradeWinds Hibiscus varieties are not winter hardy in Northern or Midwestern climates. They will thrive outdoors in locations where winter temperatures rarely drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Hibiscus can be moved outdoors during summer to enjoy on a patio or in a garden. The move must be done gradually. Move to a shady location for two to three weeks before placing in full sun to prevent severe leaf burn. Likewise, a gradual move must occur in the fall when returning plants indoors. Generally, plants are left in their containers to facilitate moving.

Some possible pests include the following:
Aphids—soft, plump-bodied; light to very dark in color; 1/16- to 1/8-inch long; found on growing tips, flower buds, flowers and the underside of leaves.
Spider mites—small and round; less than 1/16-inch long (need hand lens to see); two dark spots on bodies; will form small webs in severe cases; found on the underside of leaves.
Whiteflies—white insects that fly when disturbed; about 1/8-inch long; found on the underside of leaves.
Snails, slugs—usually only see slime trails on leaves; will eat away leaves; found on leaf surface and flower buds.
Japanese beetles—shiny, black and green shelled pests; 1/4- to 3/8-inch long; leave chew marks on leaves and flowers; only a pest when plants are outdoors.