Hurray! The hearty hibiscus bloomed!

We have not won the battle with the Thrips, as I had to cut off several buds that were thrip damaged. If the bud opens, but doesn’t burst forth, I assume thrips are to blame. I cut these damaged buds off and throw them away to disrupt the thrip life cycle (they need some dirt time). The Neem oil, Peppermint oil, and Castor soap solution helps some against the insect invasion, so I’ll continue the regimen. I’m not sure I want to delve into stronger methods at this point.