How Often to Water Newly Planted Hibiscus

Planting hibiscus can be a rewarding experience for any gardener. Not only do they produce beautiful flowers that come in various colors, but they are also hardy and easy to care for. However, they do require regular watering. To ensure that your newly planted hibiscus thrives, it's essential to know how often to water it.

Watering Frequency

Hibiscus plants like moist soil, but they don't tolerate standing water. They require a well-draining soil that will drain off excess water. As a general rule, new plants require more watering than established ones. You should water your new hibiscus every two to three days until it becomes established. Once it has taken root, you can reduce the frequency to once a week.

Water Amount

The amount of water needed by a hibiscus plant depends on various factors, such as the size of the plant and the container or ground it's planted in. The general rule is to ensure that the water reaches the root zone. You can do this by watering the plant until the soil around it is moist but not waterlogged.

One way to determine if your hibiscus needs watering is by checking the moisture level in the soil. You can do this by using a moisture meter or sticking your finger in the soil. If the soil is dry, it's time to water. If it's moist, wait a few more days before checking again.

Best Time to Water

The best time to water hibiscus is early in the morning before the heat of the day sets in. This allows the water to penetrate the soil before it evaporates due to the sun's heat. Watering in the morning also gives the plant ample time to dry out during the day, which reduces the risk of fungal diseases.

Avoid watering your hibiscus in the late evening, as this can increase the risk of fungal diseases. Also, avoid watering during the hot part of the day, as this can scorch the leaves and damage the plant.

Conclusion

In summary, the frequency of watering your newly planted hibiscus depends on how established it is. You should water it every two to three days until it takes root, then reduce it to once a week. When watering, ensure that the water reaches the root zone, and the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Water in the morning before the sun becomes too hot, and avoid watering in the evening or during the hot part of the day. Follow these tips, and your hibiscus will bloom beautifully for years to come.