Hibiscus rose mallow 'Sultry kiss'

Hibiscus moscheutos

How to grow Hibiscus rose mallow 'Sultry kiss'

  • Full Sun

  • Medium

Fertillization

Fertilize just before and during the plants active growing cycle. Fertilization should begin just prior to new growth and end three or four weeks before the first frost.
Choose an all-purpose fertilizer recommended for flowering and/or foliage plants. Frequency will depend on the type of fertilizer. Liquid (water soluble) and granular quick release fertilizer, require more frequent application; slow release granular fertilizer requires less.
When using granular fertilizer be sure to sprinkle fertilizer pellets away from the plant stems or trunk to prevent possible burning and always water thoroughly after application. This dissolves or releases the fertilizer into the soil. Apply water soluble fertilizer by thoroughly drenching the leaves and soil.
Always follow fertilizer package directions.
Pruning

Perennials are pruned to increase flower production and new growth.
Perennials that go dormant should be allowed to die back. Prune them in late winter or early spring. This encourages new growth and flowers.
Perennials that do not die back completely can be selectively pruned in early spring to remove dead and damaged limbs.
Removing old flowers prevents the plant from setting seed and encourages new blooms.
Perennials that are root bound or have a decrease in flower production should be divided. Dividing the plant will allow more room for root growth and eventually lead to an increase in blooms.
Use proper tools such as sheers and hand pruners. Make sure all equipment is clean and sharp.
Fertilize after pruning to help speed new growth.
Watering

New plants require more frequent watering than established plants. After planting check for water regularly until fully rooted and established.
For large plants; build a soil ring around the plant to use as a water reservoir. This will assist in watering until the plant is established.
Always water slowly and deeply making sure the root ball is completely saturated.
Don’t water at night if possible. Watering in the morning helps prevent disease.
If new plant wilts between watering, increase the frequency of watering.
Plants in hot, humid or sunny areas need more frequent watering than plants in cool climates.
Plants in containers may require more frequent watering than plants in the ground. This will depend on plant variety, pot size and soil.
Add a 2-3"" layer of organic mulch around plant to maintain and conserve soil moisture. Mulch will reduce watering frequency and speed root establishment. 1

Try to plant in a location that enjoys full sun and remember to water moderately. Sultry kiss is generally regarded as a hardy plant, so it can be safe to leave outdoors for the majority of winter (although if in doubt, using a row cover is often a good idea).

Growing Sultry kiss from seed

Ensure a seed sowing distance of 4.95 feet (1.52 metres).

Transplanting Sultry kiss

Sultry kiss is hardy, so ensure you wait until all danger of frost has passed in your area before considering planting outside.

Harvesting Sultry kiss

Footnotes

1 “Lowes entry on Hibiscus”http://www.lowes.com/cd_Lowes+Plant+Guide_253427968_?url=plant.aspx?code=L21805"