🌺 Hibiscus / Gudhal (Desi Variety)

Hibiscus, known as Gudhal in India, is a stunning flowering plant famous for its large, vibrant blooms available in shades of red, yellow, white, orange, and pink. The desi variety is particularly hardy, fast-growing, and blooms generously in warm climates. It’s perfect for balconies, terraces, and gardens, and is especially valued in cultural rituals and herbal traditions.

🔆 Light Requirements

• Ideal Light: Full sun — minimum 5–6 hours daily.

• More sunlight = more flowers.

• Tolerates: Partial shade, but flowering may decrease.

💧 Watering Guidelines

• Watering Style: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during flowering.

• Frequency:

  • Summer: 2–3 times per week

  • Winter: Once every 5–7 days

• Important:

  • Avoid waterlogging — roots are prone to rot.

  • Water early morning for best growth.

🌾 Soil & Potting

• Preferred Soil: Rich, fertile, well-draining soil.

• Ideal Mix:
  ✔ Garden soil
  ✔ Cocopeat or sand
  ✔ Compost/manure
  ✔ A bit of perlite (optional)

• Pot Size:
  Minimum 12–16 inches for healthy growth and flowering.

🌱 Fertilization

• Feed regularly — hibiscus is a heavy feeder.

• Schedule: Every 2–3 weeks during growth season.

• Best Fertilizers:
  ✔ Organic seaweed or liquid fertilizer
  ✔ Cow manure/compost every 2–3 months
  ✔ Low-phosphorus, high-potassium fertilizers for more blooms

• Avoid: High phosphorus fertilizers — can harm the plant.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Prune: Light pruning after winters or flowering flush to encourage branching and more flowers.

• Remove:
  ✔ Yellow leaves
  ✔ Dead branches
  ✔ Spent flowers (to prevent insect infestation)

🪴 Humidity & Temperature

• Temperature Range: 18–35°C (64–95°F)

• Loves warm, tropical climates.

• Protect from frost and extreme cold.

🌼 Blooming Notes

• Blooms best from spring to late autumn.

• Some varieties may bloom year-round in warm climates.

• Each flower typically lasts 1–2 days but new blooms appear constantly.

🐛 Common Issues

• Aphids, mites, and whiteflies may appear.
  ✔ Treat with neem oil every 10–15 days as prevention.

• Yellow leaves may indicate:
  ❌ Overwatering
  ❌ Lack of nutrients
  ❌ Poor drainage

🚫 Toxicity

• Mildly toxic if eaten in large amounts by pets, but generally safe and commonly used in herbal applications.

✅ Why Choose Hibiscus / Gudhal?

🌸 Beautiful Large Flowers — a stunning visual centerpiece.
🌿 Hardy & Heat-Tolerant once established.
🌼 Frequent Blooming with simple care.
🪷 Cultural Value — widely used in rituals and hair/skin remedies.