In the world there are more than 300 varieties and types of hibiscus. This plant came to us from Asia. There are two types of it: treelike and grassy.
Tree hibiscus is very thermophilic, and in our latitudes can only be grown as a houseplant. The most popular and loved by many flower growers hibiscus is grass hibiscus or hybrid.
Characteristics and description of grassy hibiscus
Grass hibiscus - This is an unpretentious perennial bush plant belonging to the Malvine family. Differs in high frost resistance, and very beautiful large flowers. It was obtained by crossing several American varieties, for which he received the second name - hibiscus hybrid.
Root system Hibiscus is dense, well developed. It is located at a depth of 20 to 40 cm, and therefore tolerates drought well and is not afraid of frost. However, it is not worth much to dig up the soil around the plant, so as not to damage the roots.
Leaves large, wide, dark or light green. Their shape depends on the type of plant, and can be oval or round, with a pointed tip.
Flowers herbaceous hibiscus is very large, sometimes reaching 30-40 cm in diameter. The color and number of petals can be different. There are many options for coloring: from white or cream to pale pink or dark crimson.
Barrels several, they are very tall and strong, can reach a height of up to 3-3.5 m. The stems and shoots are strongly leafy, thick and smooth, green with a reddish tinge. Frosts do not toleratetherefore for the winter they are completely cut off.
Growing grassy hibiscus
Planting and care for grassy hibiscus does not require much effort. is he unpretentious, and grows well in almost any conditions. In order for the plant to enjoy its long and beautiful flowering, you must follow some rules.
Young saplings are planted in late May or early June. Place to land should be good lighted and spacious. One plant needs at least 2-3 m of free space.
Priming for grassy hibiscus fit any. But in order for the plant to grow healthy and strong, it is better to add to the soil humus, peat and some sand. Do not forget about good drainage. At the bottom of the prepared pit you can place a little wood bark and twigs. Be sure to add to the ground a small amount of well-rotted spruce or pine needles, to reduce the acidity of the soil. The prepared soil is well shed with water and place the seedling.
Transplant Hibiscus can be made in spring and autumn. Young plants are transplanted every year, and adults - every three years. It is important to carry out this procedure before the young processes of the plant reach a length of 10 cm.
Watering hibiscus need aboutbilious and regular, especially in summer. Reduce it only after flowering.
Do not allow stagnation of water near the plant, soil marshiness. After each watering the land must be carefully loosened. Water should be well settled, not chlorinated.
Air humidity too important.
Top dressing. In the spring you can feed the hibiscus with organic and potash-phosphate fertilizers. In the rest of the time only nitrogen supplements are made monthly.
Light mode. Hibiscus is a light-loving plant. But in the first days after planting it is necessary to shade it, avoiding direct sunlight.
Thermal mode. Hibiscus is thermophilic, although it can tolerate severe frosts. The optimal temperature for growth is + 20-25C. Young plants in early spring, it is desirable to cover the film from frost.
Lifespan. Grassy hibiscus is a perennial plant. With the right care can grow for very long. The upper part of the plant dies off annually. Only the root system is saved.
Bloom very beautiful and long lasting. It starts in late July and lasts until mid-autumn. Each flower "lives" only one day, but the next day a new one appears. It provides continuous flowering.
Crop. Young shoots of hibiscus need to pinch. In winter, the whole plant is cut off at the root.
Breeding
Propagation of grassy hibiscus can be done division of rhizome, cuttings and seeds.
Growing grass hibiscus from seeds. Plant the seeds absolutely easy. To begin with, they are sprinkled with a small amount of peat, slightly moistened, wrapped in a plastic bag and placed in a refrigerator for 25-30 days. Prepared seeds can be planted directly in open ground, in late May. But it’s best to use a seedling planting method.
In January-February, the seeds are planted in a wide, shallow container filled with a mixture of peat and sand. Lightly sprayed with water, covered with glass and placed in a lit place. The temperature in the room should be at least + 25-28C. When sprouts appear two leaves, they are seated in separate pots. In May, seedlings are planted in a permanent place in the garden. Such seedlings will bloom for 2-3 years.
Before wintering grassy hibiscus pruned to the ground, watered and well sprinkled with earth, sawdust and dry foliage.
Diseases and pests
Hibiscus often suffers from attack spider mite, aphid and whitefly. Improper care may result chlorosis.
Methods of struggle
Chlorosis is caused lack of iron and excess chlorine in water for irrigation. It is expressed in yellowing and leaf fall.
Coping with this disease helps chelating.
When a whitefly and aphids appear on a plant, it will help insecticide spraying (Aktara, Intavir, Kinmiks).
If you plant lavender or marigold next to hibiscus, the aphid will not appear.
Good destroys aphids and processing garlic or soapy water. Against the whitefly can be used glue traps and spraying infusion of dandelion. Spider mite is afraid of soap solution and chemical preparations (Actofit, Vermitek).
Growing grassy hibiscus in your garden is easy. With minimal care, this plant will long please the eye with its unforgettable flowering.
A photo
See more photos of Hibiscus herbaceous further:
