Hibiscus White

1. 1. Select a Location

   Choose a sunny growing space for the hibiscus, says the Chicago Botanic Garden. In windy locations, such as areas near the coast, consider planting your white hibiscus flower near a building to block some of the wind and prevent damage to the plants.

2. 2. Test the Soil

   Test the soil pH using pH testing strips. Hibiscus plants prefer soils with a slightly acidic pH, meaning that the pH should be slightly below 7.0. Adjust the soil pH, as needed, by digging in lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it.

3. 3. Dig in Compost

   Add some organic matter, such as compost, to overly sandy or heavy clay soils. Compost improves the drainage, nutrient levels, aeration and moisture retention of any soil type. Apply at least a couple inches of compost to the surface of the soil, and use a tiller or gardening fork to mix it in to a depth of 6 inches or more. If you plan to plant hibiscus in pots, prepare by purchasing a well-drained and slightly acidic potting mixture.

Planting and Care

1. 1. Dig the Planting Hole

   Dig a planting hole so that the hibiscus starter plant can sit at the same height as it sat in the starter pot. When planting multiple hibiscus, allow at least 3 feet of space between plants. The National Gardening Association recommends planting in the spring, summer or fall.

2. 2. Plant the Hibiscus

   Place the starter hibiscus in the hole and fill the hole halfway with well-drained soil. Water the hibiscus to help the soil settle around the roots. Fill the rest of the hole in with soil, and water again to further settle the soil.

3. 3. Water the Hibiscus

   Provide the hibiscus with at least 1 inch of water per week. During rainy weather, hibiscus may not require any supplemental irrigation.

4. 4. Feed the Hibiscus

   Fertilize hibiscus twice per month during the growing season with a high-nitrogen and low-phosphorous fertilizer.. Use up to 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of growing space.

5. 5. Prune the Hibiscus

   Put on gloves and safety goggles and sterilize your cutting tools by dipping the blades in rubbing alcohol or Lysol. Prune as necessary to manage the size of the shrub. If desired, prune to shape and maintain a white hibiscus tree form rather than a bushy shrub. Deadhead fading and dead flowers to encourage continuous flowering.

6. 6. Treat for Pests

   Spray the plants with horticultural oil or wash with insecticidal soaps, as needed, to remove mites and other insects.

7. 7. Protect in Winter

   Protect all tropical hibiscus varieties from freezing temperatures in winter. Cover outdoor plants with frost blankets or build a temporary greenhouse with stakes and sheet plastic. Bring potted hibiscus indoors during freezing weather.

   Things You Will Need

   • pH testing strips
   • Sulfur or lime soil additive (optional)
   • Compost or other organic matter
   • Tiller or gardening fork
   • Fertilizer with a high nitrogen and low phosphorous content
   • Pruning shears
   • Horticultural oil or insecticidal soap