To plant hibiscus seeds successfully, follow these detailed steps:

Preparing Seeds

• Nick the hard outer seed coat gently with sandpaper or a knife tip to help moisture penetrate and speed germination.
• Soak the seeds in room temperature water for about 8 hours or overnight to soften the coat and improve germination

Sowing Seeds Indoors

• Sow seeds indoors 8-14 weeks before the last expected spring frost.
• Plant seeds about ¼ to ½ inch deep in a well-draining seed-starting mix or potting soil.
• Keep the soil moist but not soggy and maintain a warm temperature around 70-85°F (21-29°C).
• Use heat mats if necessary to maintain warmth.
• Cover the seed tray loosely with plastic wrap to retain moisture, removing it daily to water and prevent mold

Germination and Seedling Care

• Seeds typically germinate in 3-21 days depending on variety and conditions.
• Once seedlings emerge, provide plenty of light—16 hours per day under fluorescent grow lights or place on a sunny windowsill.
• Avoid incandescent bulbs as they emit too much heat.
• Feed seedlings lightly with a half-strength balanced fertilizer after 3-4 weeks when true leaves appear

Transplanting and Hardening Off

• When seedlings reach 4-5 inches tall, transplant them into larger pots carefully to avoid damaging fragile roots.
• About 1-2 weeks before planting outdoors, harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions, starting with shade and increasing sun exposure daily

Planting Outdoors

• Choose a sunny location with rich, moist, well-draining soil.
• Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root ball.
• Place the plant so the crown is level with or slightly below ground level, spreading roots gently around a soil mound if needed.
• Fill the hole halfway, water thoroughly, then fill the rest and water again.
• Mulch after new growth appears to retain moisture

Spacing Seeds/Plants

• Start multiple seeds to ensure some germinate, then thin seedlings to one strong plant per pot or space plants according to their mature size.
• Check the specific hibiscus variety’s mature height and spread to determine proper spacing in the garden, typically 3-6 feet apart for hardy hibiscus shrubs

This process ensures healthy hibiscus plants starting from seed, leading to beautiful blooms in your garden.