Roses of Sharon are adorable shrubs that bloom from summer into fall. The best thing about these flowers is that they are perennials that can thrive for thirty years! Isn’t that fascinating?
So, if you notice that they have slowly started fading away, don’t worry. It’s not that you did something wrong, it’s just because they will go dormant throughout late autumn and winter until summer arrives!
Now you might be wondering what to do when this stage comes. In the beginning, I also wasn’t sure what to do with my roses of Sharon. My curiosity led me to a task I hadn’t even considered – pruning!
Ever since I started trimming them, my roses of Sharon have become more vibrant with bigger flowers. I was amazed by how just a few simple cuts can benefit them in so many ways!
But there’s a little catch! You’ll need to do it at the right time. Knowing when to prune them might save your roses of Sharon from not blooming again (the worst-case scenario)!
Is Pruning In Winter A Good Start, Or Should You Wait For Spring?
Between these two seasons, you should definitely choose late winter! It’s also safe to prune them in late fall.
As for pruning in late spring, you’ll need to avoid it at all costs! Trimming your roses of Sharon during this season may be risky to the point that they won’t produce any flowers. Even if you prune them, their flowers won’t be any larger!
Wondering why trimming in winter is good for roses of Sharon? First things first, you’ll prevent all of the diseases that are active during the colder months! Your roses of Sharon will be able to produce healthier flowers when summer comes just by making a few cuts.
Have you been thinking about the best methods to prune these beautiful shrubs? I’ve got you covered! I’ve been growing roses of Sharon for over five years, and I have discovered some amazing tricks for pruning them. Let’s take a look at what I’ve prepared for you!
You Can’t Go Wrong With These Trimming Tricks
Before you start with the pruning, you’ll need to get the right tools! Which tool you use is important because they will make the work easier. Pruners will do a fantastic job!
Pruning in winter is great because you’ll be able to see all the structures of the branches and what you need to take out. The oldest stems can be removed first, as well as damaged ones!
The next thing you’ll need to do is reduce the height by about a third. Make sure to clip just above where there is a little bud.
Also, feel free to prune off any branches that are sticking out. Trimming suckers that are growing from the base of the plants is also a good idea because they can take all the nutrients away from your rose of Sharon!
Best Ways For Protecting Your Rose Of Sharon From The Coldest Days
Even though the rose of Sharon is a hardy hibiscus variety, you’ll still need to do a few things before frosty days arrive!
The first thing I always do before the soil freezes is watering. You’ll need to water them because well-hydrated plants can withstand frost better!
The next step is a must, not only for the rose of Sharon but for every plant that will stay out throughout the winter. Of course, I’m talking about mulch!
Just a few layers of mulch can keep these shrubs safe even in the coldest temperatures. It will hold warmth in the top of the soil, just like a little blanket protecting your rose of Sharon!
Whether you decide on late winter or fall pruning, you can’t go wrong! These two seasons are optimal times to trim the rose of Sharon for even more blooms next season. Just imagine a beautiful display in your garden when summer arrives next year.
These colorful flowers are also known for attracting hummingbirds. The melodies of sweet pollinators and your Rose of Sharon together will make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale! All you need to do is take your pruners, use these secret tricks, and make it happen.
Good luck!