Hibiscus Sizes

Effect of Pot Size and Plant Size

• A 4-inch pot can be used to transplant hibiscus plants that are four to eight months old. In this pot the plant's root system can begin to develop. The leaves of the hibiscus begin to grow from one main stem, but it may not bloom yet. A 6-inch pot can be used to grow 1-year old plants. In this size pot, a well-developed root system can grow. There will also be many stems with buds, as well as the beginning of blooms. An 8-inch pot can be used for a 2-year-old hibiscus. In this size pot, the plant will usually develop a strong root system and sturdy, multistemmed tops with many blooms. Plants transplanted into a 10-inch can will develop well for many years.

Effect of Plant Variety and Size

• Plants grow from 1-foot to 8-feet tall, depending on their variety. Hibiscus blooms usually grow between 2-inches and 8-inches wide. Some varieties of hibiscus grow faster than others to get to their final plant size. Many varieties grow almost as wide as they are tall. No matter what the variety, in warmer areas with an extended growing season and a mild winter, your hibiscus will grow larger. Greenhouses can also promote larger plant growth.

Effect of Pruning and Size

• Pruning is especially important for hibiscus growing in pots. Pruning will determine plant shape. The hibiscus usually grows one flower on a branch at a time. Use branch directions to determine the overall shape when pruning your plant. Good pruning will help your plant to become more compact or larger. It is also important to prune the plant's roots every few years to promote plant growth. Gently ease the rootball out of the pot. Prune the roots that circle the bottom of the pot. Sterilize a sharp knife with alcohol and cut 2 inches of rootball off of the root bottom. Add 2 inches of potting mix, and place the plant back into the pot, watering it to produce more growth.

Effect of Nutrition and Size

• Nutrition can affect plant growth. Good nutrition can help to reduce plant stress. A good-quality fertilizer for hibiscus has all of the nutrients necessary with as few contaminants as possible. The best fertilizer for hibiscus is an HVH blend with nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron and magnesium. A water-soluble blend should applied by hand, or with fertilizer injectors or a drip system. Because hibiscus prefer a light fertilizing, it is best to use half the dose on the label. If your hibiscus has fertilizer burn, stop fertilizing for two to three weeks then begin again. Adding growth enhancers and boosters can also positively affect plant growth.