braided "trunk" - how does that affect TLC for hibiscus?

I'm sure you've seen them - pencil sized stems braided into sort of a pseudo-trunk which then acts as a pseudo-standard. What are the implications of this in terms of food, watering, over-wintering etc. ? This was a gift from my DM and DSF.

xxxxx,
Carrie

Hi Carrie! I have three braided-stem hibiscus - one which I've had for 5 yrs., the other two for one. I LOVE them for many reasons, but from the perspective of the plant's health, I have mixed feelings. I posted twice recently asking for help with what I believe has been two co-existing problems - fungus, and perhaps aphid damage (?). It would take me all day to say all I could about this recent experience of trying to save the plants, so I'll try to minimize... Essentially, as I've recently been SO intimately involved in their care, and constantly inspecting them for the condition of the bark, new growth, insects, et. al., I keep having to admit that having the stems braided probably isn't the greatest idea. The bark on mine is really marred and damaged by fungus (canker?), and the braids make it impossible to get at some spots. Also, my older one's trunk is beginning to experience scoliosis (!), assumedly because the trees grow at different rates, and the braid is now quite tight because it is very thick, so the trunk must curve...

All that said, they are VERY beautiful, and my smaller ones are 4 stems braided together, of 4 different varieties, so they bloom in 4 colors simultaneously. I get many compliments on them and I adore them. Just be vigilant with yours to make sure no pests or diseases have a chance to take hold. Inspect the bark and leaves regularly, and watch for bugs. Same as any hibiscus, really!

I am a transplanted Bostonian - moved to Ohio for work 4 years ago. I miss New England terribly! Especially the ocean and mountains. I hope you enjoy many great years with your new braided hibiscus! Polly

Yeah, I don't last long in land-locked places - I get lost! Here east is always toward the ocean, and if you want to find the water, go east. Where did you live?

I don't have high hopes for this plant, because I'm kind of a survival of the fittest gardener. Also the braid seems like it has so many built-in problems! How do you over-winter yours?

I lived in Athens, OH for two long years ... second grade and third grade. It was, er, different!

xxxxx, carrie

Carrie, I LOVED what you said about getting lost ! I was blessed with a very good sense of direction, and I've ALWAYS told people that i orient myself by where I am in relation to the ocean, and that I didn't know how inland people can live without it. This explanation is usually received with a blank expression, and a general sense of annoyance. Now that I'm smack dab in the middle of Ohio, my theory remains. I can get around because the roads are mostly at 90' angles, but I long for that sense of knowing the water is to my east, and so on. I've described it as feeling like I have a magnet in my head - know what I mean? (insert blank, irritated stare here...)

A couple things about the Hibiscus - I would use a systemic combo. insecticide/fungicide now, to ward off demons before they quietly settle in unnoticed(I used Bayer Flower and Rose, I think it's called. Do not use malathion.) There are types you just pour at the base - simple - and you'll be less likely to experience big headaches later. I have never used chemicals until now, but frankly I wish I had. A few small doses can save you huge trouble. Especially the threat of fungus infecting your other plants. Eeek... (I must add that for the first 4 yrs. I had no problems at all.)

Re: overwintering - i've had an easy time of it, with the exception of last Spring. My plant-savvy friend was with me when i got my first Hib. 5 yrs. ago, and luckily she explained it's care so simply to me that i wasn't intimidated. So: I put mine in a fairly sunny location and water them very sparingly. The leaves may turn yellow and even all fall off, but the plant should bounce back in the Spring. Once the nights stay above 50 degrees, I bring them out into the garden and fertilize them. They are very forgiving about pruning, too - I cut mine back pretty harshly when they get unruly, keeping the shape and size i want. They have so far always come back really well.

Do not let your Hib. sit in water. You'll need a saucer indoors, but don't let it get "wet feet". No saucer outside, and plenty of holes in the bottom of the pot. I think that was what started my current fungus thing. I'm pretty sure I waited too long to water my guys at the end of last winter and they got very dry, and then very wet, causing the fungus to develop. So don't do that!

I'm afraid I made this sound complicated, although it really isn't. I'm a little gun-shy after encountering the "f-word" for the first time, so I'm hoping to spare you the same. I hope your Hibiscus survives and brings you lots of pleasure. The flowers in the Spring are a great boost after a long winter. Take care! Stick your toes into the ocean for me some day! Polly