Wintering Hibiscus

Question

Hello, I just came across your site while looking for guidance on wintering a Hibiscus. I live in Toronto, Canada which translates to VERY cold winters. I brought my Hibiscus inside to a well lit mudroom area sometime in late September. To my surprise it “loved” it. I had a plethora of flowers – possibly more at one time than I saw all summer.

It has now stopped flowering for the past month or so and I am seeing about 3-4 yellow leaves at a time. I am watering it upon dry soil as you say. I was wondering if I should be trimming it back at all? Also, you suggested moving it to a cool, dark area at this point but I’d prefer not to simply because it is quite heavy to lug around. Is it bad to leave it in this warm but well-lit room until spring when I return it to the outdoors?

Thanks so much for your help. I’d love to see success and be able to enjoy it outdoors again next summer.

Best Regards,
Laurie Forsyth

Answer 1

Tropical hibiscus surely cannot survive Toronto winters. Hardy hibiscus, especially if planted in the ground, should do just fine. While hardy hibiscus goes through a dormant period, tropical hibiscus should not. Your plant appears to be tropical hibiscus: the leaves are glossy and if flowers are large and red or orange that also points to tropical. Since the two plants must be treated differently if they are to flower, try to find your plant tag or search for images of the one you think you have. The following article describes the most common conditions that cause leaf drop in hibiscus. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hibiscus/hibiscus-leaf-drop.htm
The next article discusses general tropical hibiscus care. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hibiscus/hibiscus-container-care.htm