My hybiscus is committing flower suicide; its flowers are dying, while still small buds, and then they fall off the stem on their own. I can't get them to grow to a full bloom. What am I doing wrong? It was given to me as a Mother's day gift, I re-potted it into a larger planter (added rocks to bottom for drainage) and water it every morning. I live in south Houston and it gets late afternoon sun while on my patio. I've noticed some small tiny ants crawling on it; could they be the issue? Help, I love my peach colored Hybiscus.
It might be protesting being overwatered - generally, Hibiscus only want water when their soil is fairly dry....
The ants probably are harmless however they may indicate a Scale, Mealy bug or Aphid infestation. http://www.exotichibiscus.com/tips.cfm
Hibiscus bud drop in hot weather is very common. Also while they like rich soil, over fertilizing can cause blooming problems. Togata's comment is quite possibly the cause. Here is an article about the gall midge and a method to check for it. http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_gardening_blog/2008/07/hibiscus-bud-dr.html
I've read that hybiscus like dappled sun vs full sun. Perhaps the sun is to strong. How are the leaves holding up?
The leaves look ok - green, and there is new growth on the stems. I just hate to see the buds drop off. I was hoping to do something to help the buds bloom.
