Hibiscus is an evergreen, beautifully flowering shrub of the mallow family, the second name is Chinese rose. There are about 300 species. The plant has exotic flowers that are red, yellow or orange; each flower lives 1-2 days before drying and wrinkling. Hibiscus needs high humidity. If it is not sufficient, the buds may fall off without opening, so in spring and summer it is necessary to spray the plant daily with soft, slightly warm water.
In recent years, many hibiscus hybrids have been developed that bloom in drier air.
When purchasing, check to see if the most delicate buds have fallen from the plant.
Soil:
Equal parts clay soil mix and peat; for mature plants, use 2 parts clay soil mix and 1 part peat.
Lighting:
Good diffuse lighting; protect the plant from direct sunlight.
Temperature:
In spring and summer it is around 18-21° C, the maximum summer temperature is 27° C. In winter try to keep the temperature around 13° C.
Watering:
In summer, water the plant 2-3 times a week to maintain constant soil moisture, but do not allow the soil to become overwatered. In winter, water only when you are sure that the soil surface is dry. Pay particular attention to the soil condition at temperatures below 13° C. In such conditions, water the plant approximately once every 2 weeks.
Top dressing:
Fertilize hibiscus every two weeks during the summer, especially after flower buds appear. Use liquid fertilizer for indoor plants, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Formation:
It is quite difficult to shape, as the branches of an adult hibiscus quickly become thick and hard. Also, they do not branch out very readily. When shaping young shoots, be careful. Older branches are shaped using tension devices. At an early stage of development, to develop a good crown, it is worth giving up flowering.
Purchasing a plant:
Formed bonsai from Chinese rose are extremely rare on sale. Propagation by cuttings is possible, but to save time, it is recommended to buy young (2-3 years) plants.
Pests and diseases:
Susceptible to whitefly attack.
