OK, I know this is going to sound x-rated, but I would really LOVE to have some of your hairy balls. :) Also, the sunset hibiscus and any other hibiscus you might have. From your list of wants, I have whirligig zinnia and there may be other items on my list that would interest you. Thanks Michelle

Thank you both for your feed back it's much appreciated. Beach barbie, I do move the trays regularly by default- my cat keeps drinking the water, even though she always has a fresh bowl available. And I do think it's a tropical variety. BTW I love your name, it creates a warm image. Watergal, I don't see any evidence of pests, but your comment concerned me so I sprayed the entire plant with insecticidal soap just to be sure. On the under side of the foliage I do see some VERY TINY white powder like specs that rub off with the finger, too small for aphids. Any idea what that may be? And am I on target for March to expect new buds. Thanks, Happy Valentines Day..

Pat, it's called 'powdery mildew' and it's a type of fungus. It's also very common on lilacs, roses and more. Usually if your plants get a lot of sun and warmth with good air circulation, it will help to prevent it. When conditions are humid and plants get shade, or when the leaves stay wet overnight, etc. it is more likely to appear. That's why it's best not to water in the evening, especially now that it's getting dark earlier and nights are cooler. It generally doesn't kill the plant, although it looks unsightly. It can weaken plants though, and make them more susceptible to other, more serious diseases. You can search online for treatment, but generally a mix of neem oil (available at most garden centers) or even canola oil with a little dish detergent is sprayed on the plants. Best to do this on a cloudy day in the morning, not in bright sun. So anyway now that you know what it is, you can also look online for more information. Hope this helps.

Your call - and I'm glad you're content with your fertilizer regimen ........... but it's well known that high-P fertilizers are not to the liking of Hibiscus. After the factoring is done for how P is reported on fertilizer packages, your fertilizer provides 5-6 times as much phosphorous as the average plant wants or can use - and Hibiscus like much LESS P in relation to N as the average plant. Others should keep in mind that an excess has the same potential to limit as a deficiency. When the average plant uses 6X as much N as P, and Hibiscus even less, it's hard to justify supplying the massive doses of P contained in "bloom-booster" type fertilizers. Al