Preventing Hibiscus Leaf Drop When Bringing Indoors for Winter

4-year-old hibiscus loses all leaves when brought inside for winter (zone 5, Ontario). Last year had spider mites; cut back to 6" in March, regrew. Gets morning winter sun, then natural daylight. How to prevent leaf drop?

Expert Advice

Hibiscus are temperamental about change—water, light, etc. Leaf drop is just adjustment to new environment. Keep in sunniest window, mist leaves several times daily for humidity. Change potting mix several times a year to prevent fertilizer salt buildup altering soil pH. Monitor for spider mites.

Nick