Hibiscus care in Dubai: sun, watering, feeding and pests

Hibiscus flowers well in Dubai when it gets plenty of morning sun, regular water and regular feeding. Unlike bougainvillea or plumeria, it does not like to dry out. The most common problems are bud drop, yellow leaves and sap-sucking pests such as whitefly, aphids and mealybugs.

Key takeaways

• Give it morning sun and some shade from the harshest afternoon sun in summer.
• Water regularly. Hibiscus wilts quickly when dry, but dislikes standing water.
• Feed every few weeks during the growing season.
• Prune in late winter to keep it bushy and flowering.
• Bud drop usually means inconsistent watering or a sudden change in conditions.

How much sun does hibiscus need?

Six hours of sun is a good target, but in the Dubai summer afternoon sun and reflected heat from walls can scorch leaves and flowers. A position with morning sun and some afternoon shade is easier on the plant. In winter, it can take more sun.

How often should you water hibiscus in Dubai?

More often than the other plants in this series. In summer, a hibiscus in the ground on a drip line usually needs water several times a week, and a potted hibiscus may need it daily in peak heat. Check the soil with a finger. Water deeply, early in the morning, and avoid leaving the soil soaked.

In winter, growth slows and the plant needs less. Reduce watering, but do not let it dry out completely.

What soil does hibiscus like?

Soil that holds some moisture but still drains. Sandy UAE soil drains very quickly and holds few nutrients, so mix generous amounts of compost into the planting area. A layer of mulch on top slows evaporation. In pots, use a quality potting mix with drainage holes. Deep watering helps prevent salts building up in the soil.

How should you feed hibiscus?

Hibiscus is a hungry plant. Use a fertiliser made for flowering plants, with potassium, every few weeks in the growing season, following the label. Too much nitrogen gives leaves but fewer flowers.

How do you plant or repot hibiscus on a terrace?

Choose a pot with drainage holes, one size up from the current pot, and repot when roots fill the container. Do it in the cooler months where possible. A pot in direct reflected heat on a hot terrace can overheat the roots, so move it or shade the pot's side.

The Hibiscus Plant is in our outdoor plants range.

When and how do you prune hibiscus?

Prune in late winter or early spring. Cut back long stems by about a third to a node, remove dead wood, and open up the centre. Light tip pruning during the year keeps the plant compact. A pruned plant usually flowers on the new growth.

Why are my hibiscus buds dropping?

• Irregular watering: both drying out and soaking can trigger bud drop.
• Heat stress: extreme heat can cause buds to fall before opening.
• Moving the plant: a change of position often causes buds to drop.
• Pests: thrips and aphids damage buds.
• Too little light: buds form but do not develop.

Why are the leaves turning yellow?

• Overwatering or poor drainage: lower leaves yellow and fall.
• Underfeeding: pale leaves and fewer flowers. Feed regularly.
• Salt build-up: brown leaf edges. Water deeply to flush.
• Sudden temperature drop: some leaf drop after cold nights is normal.

Which pests attack hibiscus?

• Whitefly: tiny white insects that fly up when you shake the plant. Rinse the undersides of leaves and repeat every few days.
• Aphids: clusters on new growth and buds. A strong water spray removes many.
• Mealybugs: white cottony patches. Wipe off with a cloth and soapy water.
• Scale: small brown bumps on stems. Scrub off gently.
• Spider mites: fine webbing in hot dry spells. Rinse the leaves and raise humidity.

For persistent infestations, speak to a garden professional about suitable treatment.

How big does hibiscus get?

Typically a shrub of a couple of metres, though size depends on the type. Pruning and pots keep it smaller.

If you would like help with watering and pruning, see garden maintenance or ask for a free site visit.

Reviewed by Hamza, site supervisor at Green Beetle.