Fixit: Hibiscus won't bloom

Q My miniature hibiscus plants bloomed continuously for the first year. Now they have not bloomed for two years. How can I get them to bloom again?

A Hibiscus require bright light to bloom well indoors. A sunny western or southern exposure that has at least four to five hours of bright, direct light is best. The more light they have, the better they'll bloom, indoors or out. Using a fertilizer is recommended. Hibiscus require a balanced fertilizer such as a 20-20-20 or 10-10-10. Use the fertilizer at half the label's recommended strength every two to three weeks when placed outdoors for the summer. Indoors, fertilize less often, using half-strength formulation, every month or so in the spring and summer, less frequently in winter.

Michaeleen Kruger, intern, Master Gardener Program

Hairdressers must clean cutting tools

Q What are state regulations regarding use of scissors on customers in beauty salons and barbershops? Recently, a hairdresser attempted to cut my hair with scissors full of hair from the previous customer.

A You should be concerned about a hairdresser re-using scissors full of hair from a previous customer.

Minnesota rules require that instruments, including scissors and combs, be cleaned and disinfected before use, and that hair and debris shall be removed prior to disinfecting, according to Rebecca Gaspard, program administrator of the Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners.