Hibiscus plants can be used for landscaping, for hedging or for indoor use as pot plants. The thing is, hibiscus plants are so versatile, they can fit right in with whatever design concept you have. The trick is to choose a variety that has the right dimensions and characteristics.

Hibiscus as pot plants should be smaller. For outdoor use, get the larger varieties, as small ones will get eaten up by the landscape in terms of aesthetic appeal. Hibiscus hedges must be the medium sized varieties, with more foliage appeal for better coverage. Whichever hibiscus species you choose, make sure it will blend with other plants in your garden. If you’re using them for bonsai, use the matured plants with small leaves.

Talk to nursery owners to further discuss the type of hibiscus you want. The first thing you should ask about is the color and the breed of the plant. There are certain species that came from parents with different characteristics. Some are even bred specifically for a purpose (winter hardy, bright red flowers, lush foliage etc.). Ask the grower about these things before you purchase. If you’re particular about the aesthetic value of the flowers, you can opt for four or five petal varieties.

Before you buy your gardening tools, get a book on Hibiscus and begin getting to know your plant’s characteristics. Also, make sure you have abundant sun to keep the flowers thriving. The plant is weather-hardy but they look their best when sunlight is abundant. Moderately sandy soil is perfect for hibiscus growing, if there is some organic content and slight acidity.

If you want to breed your hibiscus plants, like when you want your pot plants to show the characteristics of your garden plants, you can propagate via cuttings. Hybrid grafting is the easiest way, but there are some hibiscus species that propagate via seed culture. However, germinated seeds may not have the traits of the parent plant because the pollen may have come from another variety.

Seedling establishment is critical to hibiscus growth. You must maintain a good watering routine and mulch the plants every once in a while until they have been established. For potted plants, watering must be done on top of the plant, and not the base. Fertilizers will promote flowering and foliage, but be warned that having too much nitrogen in your fertilizers may improve foliage growth not flowering. Pesticides, insecticides and fungicides may have to be used depending on the need. It is best to choose organic products including fertilizers.

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