Hibiscus plants, also known as Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, are cherished for their vibrant red, pink, or white flowers. Taking care of these plants is relatively easy, and they can thrive even with minimal fertilization.
Many people have a passion for gardening, transforming a part of their homes into gardens or decorating balconies and rooftops with colorful flowering plants. These plants not only look beautiful but also enhance the beauty of the home. However, sometimes even with proper care, plants may wither and dry up. Today, we’re specifically discussing hibiscus plants.
Where to Place Hibiscus Plants
Hibiscus is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid climates. It requires ample sunlight, so place it in an area where it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. You can place it on the rooftop, balcony, or in the garden where it gets plenty of sunlight.
Type of Soil
Hibiscus plants thrive in well-draining and nutrient-rich soil. You can use a mixture of soil, sand, and compost as homemade fertilizer. You can also grow hibiscus in garden soil, just ensure it’s well-drained.
Watering Requirements
Hibiscus plants need regular watering but avoid overwatering. Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. In summers, you may need to water more frequently, while in winters, reduce the watering frequency.
Protecting from Pests and Diseases
Hibiscus is susceptible to pests like aphids, whiteflies, and scale insects. If you notice pests, use neem oil or soap water to remove them. Hibiscus is also sensitive to fungal diseases like leaf spots and root rot. To prevent these, keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overwatering.
Chemical-Free Fertilizers for Your Hibiscus Plants
Cow Dung Manure
It’s one of the easiest and effective organic fertilizer options available. Cow dung manure provides a balanced mixture of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), essential for the growth of hibiscus. You can either make cow dung manure at home or buy it from the market.
Neem Cake
Neem cake is a natural pesticide and fertilizer. It adds nitrogen to the soil and helps in protecting the plants from pests and diseases.
Compost Tea
It’s a liquid fertilizer made at home that provides essential nutrients to the plants. You can use any type of compost, such as cow dung manure, neem cake, or vermicompost, to make compost tea.
Banana Peels
Banana peels are a good source of potassium, which helps in boosting hibiscus flower growth. You can dry and powder banana peels and mix them into the soil.
Eggshells
Eggshells are a good source of calcium, which strengthens hibiscus roots. Crush eggshells into powder form and mix them into the soil.
By using these chemical-free fertilizers, you can keep your hibiscus plants healthy and flourishing throughout the year.