did you know?

The difference between a shrub and a tree is a matter of form. Shrubs have many stems branching close to the ground, while trees have one main or only a few stems. Also, shrubs are generally smaller than trees.

general maintenance:

Prune rose of Sharon in early spring before it has leafed out. Selectively cut back individual branches to shape shrub; heavy pruning yields more flowers. To prevent self-sowing, deadhead spent blooms.

pests/diseases:

Hibiscus is relatively carefree.

how to sow/plant:

Choose a sunny to partly sunny site with well-drained soil. In early spring, dig a hole twice the width of container or root ball, making sure there is enough room for shrub to reach its mature spread. Set plant at same depth or slightly higher than it was in pot or, if balled, even with top of root ball. Fill in hole around plant with soil. Mound soil to form a 2-inch-high ridge around perimeter of the hole to act as a catchbasin. If plant is balled in synthetic fabric, remove carefully before planting. Burlap may be left around root ball and peeled back once plant is set in hole. Water thoroughly, filling the basin and allowing water to settle several times. Spread a 2-inch layer of mulch to retain water and to deter weeds.

water and fertilize:

Maintain uniform soil moisture the first season. Be sure the soil is moist before the ground freezes in fall. Each spring before growth begins, apply an all-purpose fertilizer, following label directions. Once shrub is established, usually by the third year, water only in times of drought.

garden hint:

Plant rose of Sharon 3 feet apart to create a long-blooming hedge.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Deciduous
• Heirloom

garden uses:

• Edging
• Flowerbed borders

other uses:

combine with:

summer-blooming perennials like daylilies phlox, and salvia, red-leaved shrubs such as red barberry ( 'Rose Glow') or smokebush ( 'Royal Purple'), or other summer-flowering shrubs like oakleaf hydrangea and spirea