Tropical hibiscus 'Dixie belle'

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

How to grow Tropical hibiscus 'Dixie belle'

  • Full Sun

  • Medium

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.

Try to plant in a location that enjoys full sun and remember to water moderately. Keep in mind when planting that Dixie belle is thought of as half hardy, so remember to watch your frost dates and ensure you have this plant protected when the temperature dips.

Growing Dixie belle from seed

Transplanting Dixie belle

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Dixie belle is a half hardy plant.

Harvesting Dixie belle

Footnotes