Question
Hi my name is Amanda, and I was wondering what I should do with my hibiscus during the winter. Keeping in mind it will be winter in the Virginia/Dc area. I am new to the area, but I here it can be very cold with lots of ice storms. I just planted this hibiscus this summer and it is in a large pot that I am not entirely sure will fit well in my small town house. My question to you is, how can I keep it alive outside (if possible) through the winter?

Answer
Amanda,

There are 2 types of hibiscus plants, one with shiny leaves that is a tropical plant that must be planted in a pot and taken indoors during the winter. The other has fuzzy leaves and can be planted in the ground and will die back during the winter and come up again next June. I imagine yours is the tropical variety and will not survive outdoors below 50 degrees.  you have to keep it indoors during the winter in a sunny window or in a greenhouse. It can be cut back up to half the size that it is now and it will survive. You just cannot cut it back so far that you cut all the green leaves off and it must have lots of sun over the winter. It cannot be allowed to dry out totally during the winter but it must not be overwatered either. If you have more questions write again. Good luck.

Darlene