Hibiscus Plants – outside

Question

I live in Knoxville,TN and I have a cluster of 4 Hibiscus plants in my yard for about 20 years. I was told by the plant seller that my plants will survive our winter. I have noticed every year,I’m getting fewer canes and flowers. Can I wrap the the bottoms of the canes,with plastic or burlap to keep them warmer in winter? Should I mound some dirt and leaves around the base of the plants to keep them warmer? I have never bothered with them before,but now that I’m retired, I have time on my side.And I always loved these plants.I fell in love with Hibiscus flowers when I went on vacation to the Bahamas. Also,in Spring,when do I fertilize these plants,and what is a good fertilizer? Can I plant Peach trees in this area that will fruit? How about a lemon tree?Do I need 2 Lemon trees? And will they fruit? I love fruit trees.I moved here from Poway,CA[N of SAN DIEGO),and had a APRICOT tree in my yard,which I thoroughly enjoyed. Need some fruit trees here.Thanks for all your help.

Answer 1

If it has been there for 20yrs, it may simply be overcrowding itself and need to be divided to produce better. Adding mulch around the root zone in autumn is always a good idea. As far as fruit trees grow, their should be plenty of fruit trees you can grow in your location. Just don’t shade out the hibiscus. This article may help
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hibiscus/transplanting-hibiscus.htm