lantern hibiscus (Abutilon) also known as Chinese lantern,
is a beautiful flowering plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors.
Here are some tips on how to grow and care for Lantern Hibiscus: .
How to Grow and Care Lantern
Hibiscus:
lantern hibiscus, also known as lantern hibiscus or Chinese lantern, is a
beautiful flowering plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors. Here
are some tips on how to grow and care for lantern hibiscus:
- Planting:
Choose a well-draining pot or a sunny spot in your
garden. lantern hibiscus prefers full to partial sunlight. Use a
good-quality potting mix or prepare the soil by adding compost to
improve its fertility and drainage. Plant the lantern hibiscus at the same
depth it was previously growing, if transplanting from a container.
Watering:
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water
the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. During hot weather,
lantern hibiscus may require more frequent watering. However, avoid
overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Fertilization:
- Feed your lantern hibiscus with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the correct
dilution and application method. Reduce or stop fertilizing in the
fall and winter when the plant enters a dormant phase.
- Pruning:
Prune lantern hibiscus in early spring to promote
bushier growth and remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
You can also prune for shape and size control, but avoid excessive
pruning, as it may reduce flowering. Winter care (for outdoor
plants):
- Lantern Hibiscus is generally frost-tender, so if you live in a cold
climate, bring the plant indoors before the first frost. Place the
plant in a bright location, such as near a south-facing window, and
maintain a temperature of around 50-55°F (10-13°C). Water sparingly
during the winter, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between
waterings.
- Pests and diseases:
lantern hibiscus can be susceptible to
pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Inspect the plant
regularly and treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap
or neem oil. Proper air circulation and avoiding overwatering can
help prevent fungal diseases.
- Propagation:
lantern hibiscus can be propagated through
stem cuttings or by collecting and sowing its seeds. To propagate
from cuttings, take a 4-6 inch long cutting from a healthy stem,
remove the lower leaves, and place it in a moist rooting medium.
Keep it in a warm and bright location until roots develop.
Seeds can be sown in a well-draining seed-starting mix and kept
moist until germination. Remember that different varieties of
lantern hibiscus may have specific care requirements, so it's always a good
idea to check the specific needs of the particular cultivar you
have. With proper care, lantern hibiscus can reward you with its vibrant and
lantern-like flowers throughout the growing season.
Propagating Lantern
Hibiscus:
We can collect and keep the seeds for next year. Normally
seeds are collected in the winter season. In the next year we can use
those seeds to grow new plants .
Types of Lantern Hibiscus:
There are may types of Lantern Hibiscus flower. Mainly
Lantern Hibiscus flowers comes in blue, white , pink and combination
of white - blue -pink colors.
Benifits Of Lantern Hibiscus Plant and
Flowers:
- The fine paste of Lantern Hibiscus plant leaf reduce
swelling.
- It is used to treat male pattern baldness and premature hair
loss and greying.