Can You Keep Tropical Hibiscus Trees in Your Garage in the Winter?

Living in Ohio, especially in Cincinnati, brings its own set of challenges when it comes to maintaining outdoor plants during winter. Many gardeners have questions about overwintering tropical hibiscus trees, and one such gardener shares their experience:

They have a couple of hibiscus trees along their fence line but aren't sure how they got there! Despite their uncertainty, these trees have shown remarkable resilience, starting to bloom as early as April and continuing into September. This experience has given them confidence that their hibiscus trees can survive in the garage during winter.

However, before you decide to winterize your hibiscus in the garage, there are several factors to consider. In this article, we will explore the feasibility of overwintering hibiscus trees in a garage and provide tips to ensure their survival.

What Is Hibiscus Overwintering?

Overwintering hibiscus involves providing the necessary conditions to keep the plant alive and healthy during the colder months. There are two main approaches:

Treating it as a houseplant: keeping it warm, moist, and well-lit. Allowing it to enter dormancy: providing slightly cooler conditions with less light, and watering less frequently to maintain the soil's moisture.

Maintaining bright light and warm temperatures indoors is the best practice for overwintering hibiscus. However, for those with limited indoor space, a garage can be a viable option. Let's explore the steps to ensure your hibiscus survives the winter in the garage.

Temperature for Overwintering Hibiscus in a Garage

Tropical hibiscus plants thrive in warm temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 70°F. If your garage maintains this temperature range, it can be suitable for your hibiscus. However, if the temperature drops below this range, the plants may suffer. Monitoring the temperature and ensuring it stays within the ideal range is crucial.

Light Requirements for Overwintering Hibiscus in a Garage

Hibiscus plants require ample bright light to thrive. If your garage has windows, natural light is ideal. However, if the garage lacks natural light, consider using grow lights to provide sufficient light during the winter months.

Humidity in the Garage During Cold Weather

The air in garages can be quite dry, especially during winter. To address this, you can increase humidity around your hibiscus by using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plants. This will help maintain the necessary moisture levels and prevent the leaves from drying out.

Watering Hibiscus Trees in a Garage

During winter, reduce watering to prevent over-saturation of the soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is detrimental to the plant's health. Ensure the pots have good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Pest Management for Overwintering Hibiscus in a Garage

Before bringing the hibiscus trees into the garage, check for pests. The confined space can be a breeding ground for pests if they are not monitored. Regular inspections and proper pest control measures are essential to maintain the health of your plants.

While your garage may seem like a suitable option for overwintering hibiscus trees, it is essential to ensure all the necessary conditions are met. If your garage cannot provide adequate warmth, light, humidity, or protection from pests, it might be better to bring the hibiscus indoors to a more stable environment.

Following these tips for overwintering hibiscus in a garage will increase the chances of successfully keeping these beautiful plants alive and thriving through the winter months. Whether in a garage or indoors, providing the right care and conditions is key to ensuring the health and beauty of your tropical hibiscus trees.