Why are Hibiscus Buds Falling Off?

Tropical hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) varieties may drop flower buds before they open due to various stress factors.

Some common stressors include:

1. Drying Out: Hibiscus flower buds often drop when the plant becomes too dry, typically when it begins to wilt. This is the primary reason observed for bud loss in hibiscus plants.
2. Inconsistent Watering: Fluctuating moisture levels, where the plant alternates between being too wet and too dry, can also lead to bud drop. Maintaining consistent watering can help prevent this issue.
3. Sudden Environmental Changes: Hibiscus may drop buds when transitioning from one environment to another, such as from a garden center to a home setting with differences in light, temperature, or watering. Once acclimated, bud drop usually stops, although abrupt changes in conditions (like a cold night after a warm day) can stress the plant.
4. Heatwaves: While tropical hibiscus thrive in warm temperatures, extreme heat, especially above 95°F (35°C), can stress certain varieties, potentially causing bud drop.
5. Rootbound Conditions: Overly cramped roots can also contribute to hibiscus bud drop. Repotting as needed, especially as the plant outgrows its container, can mitigate this issue, especially for perennial hibiscus.
6. Pest Infestation: Insect pests such as aphids and thrips, as well as nematodes in warm-winter areas like South Florida, can weaken hibiscus plants, leading to bud drop before flowers can bloom.