Hibiscus & Oleander Not Blooming: Pruning at Wrong Time

Florida. Mature oleanders & hibiscus green but few blooms. Oleanders especially sparse. Hibiscus buds drop. What's lacking?

Pruning Removes Flower Buds

Both bloom on new growth. Spring pruning = cutting off that year's flowers.

Correct Timing

• Prune early spring (before growth) OR fall (after bloom).
• Never prune during active growth if you want flowers.

Other Factors

• Hibiscus bud drop = heat stress, thrips, or dry soil.
• Fertilize with bloom-booster (high P/K) after pruning.

Adjust pruning schedule; blooms return next cycle.