Sunday, January 22, 2012

Any ideas/suggestions on starting Texas 5 star (aka swamp hibiscus) from a seed?

Swamp Hibiscus propagation: By seeds or root division. Seeds should be nicked, then soaked in hot (not boiling) water for 48 hours prior to planting. Germinate in damp papertowels and zip lock baggies. Seeds normaly take 30-60 days to germinate. Sow in well drained soil, and keep 70-75 degrees.
Any ideas/suggestions on starting Texas 5 star (aka swamp hibiscus) from a seed?
Next spring when the night temps are above 68, soak the seeds for a day or two before planting. Plant in a sunny area. These are bog shrubs, give lots of water after they are established. They can take the heat. Mix slow-release fertilizer into your soil before planting.



I grow mine in large containers of 25 lb Miracle-Gro potting soil with plant food added. I also add water crystals to the soil so I won't have to water everyday. I mix in slow-release fertilizer, plus water with liquid fertilizer in May, June and July before the temps climb to the 90's. Don't fertilize after August 1st (or when the temps are in the 90's)



If you want to collect seeds, let the flowers drop off by themselves. Pods will form. Let these dry to a dark brown or black color. Break open the pods and you will find several hard seeds. I am collection now (August).



Happy gardening.
  • cream blush
  • No comments:

    Post a Comment