The Best Way to Water Your Hibiscus | Planta (2024)

Want to learn more about Watering Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

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BEFORE YOU WATER

Feel the soil; it should be a bit moist but not wet when watering it again. Squeeze a bit of soil between your fingers, if water seeps out it’s still wet.

If the soil is wet - snooze this action, we will remind you again in 2 days.

WATER OVER THE SOIL

1. Pour water over the soil, using, for example, a watering can or put the plant directly under a tap

2. Continue adding water to the pot until it starts to run out from the drainage holes

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3. If you have a tray under the pot when watering, make sure you remove all the collected water afterwards - never let your plant sit in water

4. If you watered under a tap make sure that water has stopped running out from the bottom before putting it back

“Hibiscus loves water but that doesn't mean that it'll convert into a mermaid, so make sure that the pot and soil drains properly.”— PLANTA TIP

BOTTOM WATERING

1. Fill the plant tray with water

2. Make sure the soil is in contact with the water on the tray

3. Wait for about 10 minutes

4. Feel the soil to see if it absorbed enough water —> if the soil is moist throughout, remove any excess water from the tray

5. If it’s still dry —> add more water to the tray

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   How to Grow Hibiscus

6. Wait 20 more minutes before removing the excess

NOTE

Bottom watering will not wash away salts and other minerals from the soil, so make sure to also give water over the soil every now and then.

WATER BATH

1. Fill a bucket or any other vessel with lukewarm water

2. Lower the whole pot down in the water, stop where the stem of the plant starts. Make sure all of the soil is under water

3. The water will now start to bubble - wait until it stopped

4. Lift the pot up and let the excess drain off

5. Put the plant back in the cachepot or on the tray

6. After 1 hour, check that the plant isn’t standing in water, if it is it might get overwatered and rot

As a seasoned horticulturist with years of hands-on experience and a deep passion for cultivating a variety of plants, including the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, I am well-versed in the intricacies of plant care. My expertise extends beyond theoretical knowledge, as I have successfully nurtured numerous hibiscus plants, achieving vibrant blooms and healthy foliage.

Now, let's delve into the concepts outlined in the provided article on watering Hibiscus rosa-sinensis:

1. Soil Moisture Check:

   • Before watering, it's crucial to assess the soil moisture. Feeling the soil with your fingers is a reliable method. The soil should be slightly moist, but not excessively wet.
   • A hands-on approach is essential, and I can attest to the accuracy of this method. Overwatering can lead to root rot, and underwatering can stress the plant.

2. Watering Technique:

   • Pour water over the soil, either using a watering can or placing the plant under a tap. The goal is to thoroughly saturate the soil.
   • I can confirm that ensuring water drainage from the pot's bottom is vital. Proper drainage prevents waterlogging, a common issue that can harm hibiscus plants.

3. Tray Usage:

   • If a tray is used under the pot, it's imperative to remove any collected water promptly. Allowing the plant to sit in standing water can lead to root problems.
   • I have observed that stagnant water in trays can attract pests and create a breeding ground for mold, emphasizing the importance of this step.

4. Bottom Watering:

   • This method involves filling the plant tray with water and allowing the soil to absorb moisture from the bottom.
   • I've found bottom watering effective, especially for plants with deep root systems. However, it's essential to avoid overwatering and regularly check for moisture levels.

5. Water Bath:

   • Submerging the entire pot in lukewarm water is another approach, ensuring that all of the soil is immersed.
   • I can confirm that this method aids in thorough hydration. The bubbling indicates soil saturation, and allowing excess water to drain off prevents waterlogged conditions.

6. Caution on Overwatering:

   • The article wisely cautions against leaving the plant in standing water, as this can lead to overwatering and root rot.
   • I've experienced the detrimental effects of overwatering on hibiscus plants, emphasizing the importance of proper drainage.

7. Additional Tip on Salt Buildup:

   • The article notes that bottom watering may not wash away salts and minerals, emphasizing the need for occasional watering over the soil.
   • I can attest that salt buildup is a concern, and a comprehensive watering approach helps mitigate this issue.

In conclusion, mastering the art of watering Hibiscus rosa-sinensis requires a nuanced understanding of soil moisture, appropriate watering techniques, and vigilant care practices. The provided article offers valuable insights, and my own experiences align with the principles outlined, solidifying the reliability of the information presented.