Many people enjoy plants and flowers. However, it can be hard to keep them alive if you don’t use the right products. Are your hibiscus plants dying, or are the leaves turning yellow?
It’s common for these flowering plants to have issues with regular soil. That is why you need to research and use the best fertilizer for hibiscus plants. This can be hard to do yourself, so we have created a helpful guide.
Here, you will learn what fertilizer works well and why. You’ll also find out when and how to fertilize your hibiscus plants.
Did you know that the hibiscus flower was the state flower for Hawaii? This bloom adds some tropical beauty to homes everywhere, as well. You will find that it can be grown indoors and outside in most circumstances.
These plants feature bright, big flowers. To achieve the right look, you need to supply your plants with the proper nutrients. It is ideal to fertilize them throughout the spring, summer, and fall months.
They feature such showy flowers that they are ideal for patios and gardens. You can add a tropical flair to your indoor areas, as well.
Hibiscus flowers tend to be about four to eight inches in diameter. They come in a variety of colors, such as red, coral, yellow, and white… The blossoms bloom throughout the growing season, so you always have beautiful flowers.
Ideally, hibiscus plants require a fertilizer with a medium or high amount of nitrogen (N). They also need a low amount of phosphate (P) and higher amounts of potash (K). This comes in the form of numbers and dashes.
Hibiscus fertilizer ratio: Medium (N) – Low (P) – High (K).
The Best Fertilizer For Your Hibiscus Plants
With so much information included here, it can be hard to decipher it all. When you’re in a rush or just want quick facts, use the helpful table below. It contains useful information that will help you make the right choice in fertilizer.
The Hibiscus Plant Food is manufactured by Carl Pool. It’s scientifically formulated to provide a well-balanced diet for any variety. You’ll find it has a ratio of nitrogen, phosphate, and potash of 10-4-12.
These numbers are ideal, though there could be a bit more potassium. Remember, your hibiscus plant is going to deplete the potassium in the soil faster than the other nutrients. Therefore, you need a higher last number.
Though the traditional nutrients are important, this product goes further. It also contains sulfur to help optimize pH levels in the soil.
You will also find a lot of magnesium and calcium. This helps the plant build healthy roots, leaves, and stems. Your hibiscus plant will thrive like never before.
Of course, there are other nutrients and minerals included. These consist of zinc, iron, and copper.
This comes in a four-pound container with a resealing lid. One might not be enough for the entire fertilizing season. It depends on how many plants you have and where they are located.
For example, if they are planted outside, you will need up to 18 pounds, depending on the soil and application. Potted palms should take less than a tablespoon to fertilize.
2. Dr. Earth Exotic Blend Palm, Tropical & Hibiscus Fertilizer
For people who prefer organic products and fertilizers, this one might be right for you. The Dr. Earth Exotic Blend Palm, Tropical & Hibiscus Fertilizer is a non-GMO product. It’s the only one offered in the United States.
The product contains no synthetic chemicals, toxic ingredients, or chicken manure. Therefore, it is safe for pets and people. Where ratios are concerned, it is a 5-4-6 blend.
This may not be ideal, as there should be much more potassium (last number) than nitrogen (first number). However, it does work, though you may need to use more of the product.
One of the benefits of this product is that it is handcrafted using feed- and human-grade ingredients. It also contains proteins, multi-minerals, and carbohydrates. These are important to promote healthy soil that will grow beautiful tropical plants.
You’ll also find trace elements and humic acids. Healthy soil contains much more than just nitrogen, potassium, and phosphate.
The goal of this product is to provide you with more flowers/blooms that are bigger. Because it is organic, it also contains probiotics that the plant needs. However, it can smell a little pungent, so it can take some getting used to.
3. Grow More 5118 Bromeliad Tillandsia Food
When it comes to hibiscus plants, you know that you need higher amounts of potassium and nitrogen. The Grow More 5118 Bromeliad Tillandsia Food provides that. Its ratio is 17-8-22, which is one of the highest on the market.
This means that it contains plenty of potassium, which your hibiscus plants will require to thrive. Some might worry that there is too much phosphorus, but it is comparable to the other top ingredients. Therefore, it shouldn’t be too much for the plant to handle.
The one caveat here is that this fertilizer is not specifically designed for hibiscus plants only. Because it is also for tillandsia, it has a higher ratio of the trifecta (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium). It isn’t likely to hurt the plants, and you can use it for more varieties.
Looking at the ingredient list, you can easily see that no UREA is included. This is good because it has no real food use. Plus, it could be harmful to plants that aren’t grown in soil.
Though most people will plant hibiscus in a traditional garden, you can grow them on wood and logs. Therefore, you can use this product on plants that aren’t conventionally grown. It’s also possible to use the fertilizer on potted and garden plants.
4. JR Peters 51624 Jack’s Classic Palm Food
Those who are looking for a plant food that works on multiple varieties will like this next product. The JR Peters 51624 Palm Food works on cycads, such as Zamia and Sago palms. It also works on Date, Queen, and Royal palms.
However, the one thing to remember is that you may not have a palm-style hibiscus plant. In most cases, this won’t be a problem. You can still use the product for potted and garden versions.
This product features a ratio of 16-5-25. You’ll find this is an ideal product because it has more potassium than nitrogen (last and first numbers, respectively). Plus, it is low in phosphorus.
Therefore, you can expect to see lush growth with time, as well as stronger leaves and stems. Of course, the blooms will also benefit. They may become quite large and look beautiful.
You’ll find that this is water-soluble plant food. It contains a blend of the most essential nutrients. These include magnesium, micronutrients, and sulfur.
Of course, you will be mixing the powder mixture with water. You can then spray it onto the soil for effective and accurate delivery. When you order, it comes with a helpful measuring spoon to make it easier.
5. HIBISGAIN Hibiscus Fertilizer
Whether you live in Florida or not, the HIBISGAIN Hibiscus Fertilizer is ideal. Though it is developed for use by commercial growers of the plant, it’s available to anyone. If you’d like to see your plants thrive, this is an excellent choice.
You’ll find that this product is designed specifically for hibiscus plants. It takes into account the unique growing habits. This means that it is going to work for you and your needs.
It comes in a 10-pound bag that can be resealed. There is a small cut-out in one corner. This allows you to easily carry it to wherever the plants are located.
Because the ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are so important, this one is 12-6-8. You will note that the amount of potassium is less than nitrogen. This isn’t considered the ideal ratio.
However, that doesn’t mean you won’t see results. It just means that it might take longer. Sometimes, you won’t get as big of blooms as you would with a higher potassium content.
This product does include minors, which are micronutrients. Therefore, it can still work well for your hibiscus plants.
Plus, this product can be applied directly to the topsoil or mulch. You don’t need to mix it with water and spray it.
6. Water Soluble Banana Fertilizer
It might seem strange that the Water Soluble Banana Fertilizer made it to the list. Though it is designed for bananas, it has the right ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium at 15-5-30.
Such high amounts of potassium will ensure that your blooms are bigger and more beautiful than ever before. However, you should note that it is water-soluble. This means that you can’t just sprinkle the fertilizer over the plants.
Ideally, you will mix the solution in water. You can find the right proportions on the package label.
The good news is you can use this for weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly feedings. You will use double the amount for monthly feedings, but that means you have to do less work. If you have multiple plants, this might be ideal.
Though the primary concern is nitrogen, potassium, and phosphate, there are other nutrients to consider. Micronutrients, such as iron, magnesium, and zinc are also helpful. They make sure that the plant has everything it needs to thrive.
Since this product is designed for bananas, you may worry about putting it on your hibiscus. This is understandable, but there is no fear. The fertilizer will work on almost any plants that require medium nitrogen and high potassium levels.
7. EZ-GRO Fertilizer
You’ll find that the EZ-GRO Fertilizer provides the right combination of nutrients in a 17-5-24 ratio. This is ideal for a variety of plants, including palms and hibiscus. More potassium means you’ll have lusher foliage and more vibrant blooms.
It doesn’t necessarily matter at what time you fertilize, but some products do say to do it early in the morning. This product work wells in any conditions. However, it is ideal for use in dark or cool situations.
Though potassium and nitrogen are important for hibiscus, other nutrients are necessary. This product contains a micronutrient package. It’s blended together to deliver the right nutrition for your plants.
Of course, this product also comes with more sulfur and magnesium. These are ideal for creating healthy soil. That way, your plants look more robust, as well.
UREA is a significant concern for many hibiscus growers. However, this fertilizer does not contain any UREA. Because there is so much nitrogen, it’s not necessary.
Therefore, you get four-times more nitrogen. With the added micronutrients and a lot of potassium, this ensures healthy, vibrant blooms.
While it’s not a deal-breaker, the measuring cup comes included. This means you don’t have to use household measuring tools to apply the product.
8. Nelson Hibiscus and Flowering Tropicals Granular Fertilizer
Do you look at the plant food that you put on your hibiscus? Probably not. However, the Nelson Hibiscus and Flowering Tropicals Granular Fertilizer is quite colorful.
This product has been designed specifically for hibiscus plants and other tropicals. It contains 10 percent nitrogen, four percent phosphate, and 12 percent potash (10-4-12 ratio). Of course, there are also added minerals that your plant needs.
These include magnesium, sulfur, and iron. Mixed together like it is, you will see brighter and bigger blooms. Plus, the foliage will be lush, and the vines/roots will be stronger.
You’ll find this fertilizer is ideal for Texas Star, Tropical, and Mallow Hibiscus. However, it also works well on Althea, Confederate Rose, and more. Therefore, it can be used in a variety of ways.
If you live in an area that has dry weather conditions, you need fertilizer. This one works well to help your tropical flowers tolerate the hot sun, dry air, and little rain.
Though it claims to produce immediate results, you will probably not see anything for the first week or so. However, the product is designed to deliver nutrition at the right time. They get an initial boost when it’s applied, and it also works continuously until the next feeding.
When to Fertilize Hibiscus Plants?
You’ve already learned that hibiscus plants need medium amounts of nitrogen and more potassium/potash. Phosphorus tends to accumulate in the plant.
It can also bind to other minerals. Therefore, you don’t want as much phosphorus.
Primarily, it is best to fertilize your plants early in the morning while the temperature is still cool. When using a dry fertilizer, make sure to water the plant thoroughly first.
You should also add some water afterward. This prevents the fertilizer from burning or damaging the roots.
Most people wonder why they should fertilize in the morning. After all, hibiscus plants love the sunlight. You should ensure that your plants get up to eight hours of sun each day.
The problem is that the higher temperatures of the afternoon can cause the water/fertilizer to evaporate. You want your plants to get all the nutrients they can. Therefore, it’s best to water and fertilize when the plants are still cool.
This also means the placement of your plants is essential. You want a spot that is shaded in the mornings with full sunlight in the afternoon. The plant will bloom and yield more flowers in these conditions.
How Often to Fertilize Hibiscus?
Most people wonder how often they need to fertilize their hibiscus plants. Generally, you want to do it frequently. However, you don’t want to add too much fertilizer.
When you do it lightly, but at every watering, your plant will grow well. Plus, you will see bigger and more blooms and don’t have to worry about over-fertilization.
If the product you’re using is a slow-release fertilizer, it’s best to do it four times a year. This includes early spring, after the first blooming, mid-summer, and early winter. We did not review any slow-release fertilizers, but we wanted you to have the information.
Those who use water-soluble fertilizers will likely want to dilute the product based on the instructions. You can use it every two weeks during the blooming season. It may also be best to fertilize once a month during the offseason.
Dry fertilizer can also be used. It depends on the product, but you can usually fertilize the plants every week or bi-weekly. Pay close attention to your plants to determine if you need to feed it more often.
How to Fertilize Hibiscus Plants?
Fertilizing your hibiscus plants is fairly straightforward. However, there are a few tips that will make it easier.
It doesn’t matter if your plant grows in a pot or in the ground. You need to make sure that the fertilizer reaches the edges of the tree canopy. Most people only fertilize at the base of the plant’s trunk.
This means that the food doesn’t have a chance to reach all of the roots. The problem with that is your plant won’t thrive and grow as well as it could. Fertilizer is designed to start at the roots to produce lush greenery and more blooms.
The next thing to consider is the type of fertilizer you purchase. If it is water-soluble, you will need to mix it correctly. You will find the directions located on the back of the container.
It is best to follow them to the letter. That way, you don’t risk over-fertilizing your plant.
Some products are designed to be sprinkled on top of the soil. You will likely receive a measuring cup to ensure that you’re using enough of the product.
Conclusion
It is important to understand what your plants need to thrive. That will ensure that they look their best and produce vibrant blooms that will impress everyone. We’ve reviewed eight different products to help you decide which one is ideal for your needs.
Though there were many options available, the best hibiscus fertilizer is likely to be EZ-GRO fertilizer. We looked at a variety of things when choosing the right fertilizer for hibiscus plants.
Of course, our primary concern was the ratio of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphate. This product had the highest amount of potassium while being low in phosphorus. It also had an average percentage of nitrogen.
However, we also considered the micronutrient package to be helpful. You need a variety of minerals and nutrients to help your plants thrive. If you follow the directions and pay close attention to when and how often to feed, your hibiscus plants will be amazing.
I am an analytical chemist and aware of fertiliser composition. I am interested to know whether we can mix fertilisers to get the required percentage irrespective whether it is a chloride or sulphate fertiliser
and will not harm the plant. Regarding the articles are excellent and very useful. Thank you
I have two questions: 1) We bought yellow with red eye centered hibiscus. First year they bloomed yellow & red. After that, they have turned orange. Anything I can do to get them back to the original yellow with red eyes?
2) There do not appear to be any bugs present, but every year these plants are loaded with buds, but only a few actually bloom. What am I doing wrong? I’m in Central Florida and they get a good 4 – 6 hrs. of sun. I prune them every spring and they are healthy looking plants – approximately 4 ft. high and wide.
Very helpful
A very good article, but need to search in the Subcontinent where we get such fertilizers.
Exactly what I needed so that my hibiscus will be beautiful. Thank you!
I use fish emolesion to feed my Hibiscus, every time i water.
I am an analytical chemist and aware of fertiliser composition. I am interested to know whether we can mix fertilisers to get the required percentage irrespective whether it is a chloride or sulphate fertiliser
and will not harm the plant. Regarding the articles are excellent and very useful. Thank you
What about Osmocote 274850 Smart-Release Plant Food Plus Outdoor & Indoor? It has a 19-6-12 ratio.
Nitrogen-15% Phosphate 9% Potash 12% Magnesium 1.3% Sulfur 6% Boron 0.02% Copper 0.05% Iron 0.46% Manganese 0.06% Molybdenum 0.02% Zinc 0.05%.
I hope this helps.
How frequently do I fertilize my fire and ice hibiscus? I see it should be done in the morning. What would you recommend?
I have two questions: 1) We bought yellow with red eye centered hibiscus. First year they bloomed yellow & red. After that, they have turned orange. Anything I can do to get them back to the original yellow with red eyes?
2) There do not appear to be any bugs present, but every year these plants are loaded with buds, but only a few actually bloom. What am I doing wrong? I’m in Central Florida and they get a good 4 – 6 hrs. of sun. I prune them every spring and they are healthy looking plants – approximately 4 ft. high and wide.
!) Yellow w/red eyes – bloomed one year yellow. Now blooms orange each year.
2) Lots of bloom drops, few flowers on each bush.
Can I print the list of fertilizers with remarks without others comments. It will save ink.
MJ