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Hibiscus
Heather D
Posts: 14
Hi I live in Spain and have several hibiscus which I love. However I have one (pot grown) which was fine until a few days ago but now the buds don't open they wither before they get chance. Not sure if I'm over watering but the compost feels very dry before I water so maybe I am not giving enough water? Still new to gardening in this climate!! I water every evening
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Posts
Hibiscus like moist but well drained soil so I wouldn't water every day. Look at the conditions the out of pot ones are growing in and replicate those conditions. Put it in a similar soil to the ones in the ground as well that should give it the best chance possible.
Many thanks Dave - so would you recommend replacing the compost in the pot with our rather poor sandy soil? I only have one (that was already in the garden when we bought the house) in the soil the other 2 are both in pots filled with compost - one is doing fine but as said the other (although it was ok for several weeks) now fails to flower although still produces lots of buds. Incidentally I also water both the others every day - it is 30 degrees full sun! I water most plants every day but I know us ex-pats have a reputation for over watering!!
It may seem poor sandy soil, but Spain has some very fertile sandy soil and hibiscus grow well in that sort of soil. Compost dries out quicker than the host soil, sandy soil although appearing dry on the surface holds a surprising amount of water below ground. Pot them in the soil around you and water say twice a week. I'm pretty sure you'll get results. Also try talking to the expats they will be helpful, always some gardeners about who have found the right combinations.
Many thanks Dave - I will try that
Moved the hibiscus about a week ago and already it is doing better. I think in fact it was a little pot bound. Thanks again Dave