Hibiscus Pruning

For successful hibiscus pruning, you will need some sharp pruning shears. Of course, you will use the shears on all your plants so it is important that you clean them after use. Wash them with a mild soapy water and dry thouroughly. If they get dull or rusty buy a new pair - you are using them to cut into a living plant so they should be as clean and sharp as possible.

Hibiscus pruning is done similar to any plant. Cut a diagonal clean slice just above any of the nodes. The diagonal should angle down towards the center of the plant. Cut off any sections that are unhealthy in this manner or any areas that don't match the shape you want. New growth will result from the pruned area which will give you more blooms and a healthier plant. If you don't want to prune off all the flowers in one sitting, then do it in 3 or 4 sessions. Prune one side of the plant and then a month later, do the next side, and then a month later do the third etc...

Hibiscus pruning can be done at any time of year, but if you are in a colder climate, you will want to keep the pruning to a timeframe where the new growth will not be subjected to any cold temperatures. Cold and freezing temperatures can damage tender new growth. If you are in a tropical climate, of course, this is not a worry - lucky you!

Tropical hibiscus grow best in tropical climates, but there are some hardy versions that can grow in colder climates. To get the most out of your plant, plan to fertilize it often and give it a sunny spot to thrive in. Inspect for bugs frequently and treat gently.