Tropical hibiscus 'Painted Lady'

Tropical hibiscus are highly sensitive to phosphorus (the middle “P” number on fertilizers) and an excessive amount will kill the plant. Do not use so-called “bloom fertilizers” on them. Instead tropical hibiscus need a lot of potash to bloom properly (the last number or “K” on fertilizers). Palm fertilizers are widely available and usually have the proper ratio of a medium-low-high NPK ratio along with needed minors.

The pesticide malathion will defoliate tropical hibiscus. Do not use it for pest control.

Painted Lady likes a position of full sun and remember to water moderately. Painted Lady is generally regarded as a tender plant, so remember to wait until your soil is warm and the night time temperature is well above freezing before moving outside.

By our calculations, you should look at sowing Painted Lady about 84 days before your last frost date.

Painted Lady is tender, so ensure you wait until all danger of frost has passed in your area before considering planting outside.