Q.Rose of Sharon
We have 4 Rose of Sharon bushes in a row next to our house that have never been pruned and have grown 7′-8′ high. Or at least they would be that tall if they weren’t sagging almost down to the ground. The stems are growing tilted about 45 degrees, right down to their base. Is there a way to prune the bushes so they might straighten up and be able to hold their own weight?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Rose of Sharon is actually a variety of hardy hibiscus. Therefore, pruning takes place in spring--specifically anytime from late March through early May, before the leaf buds open. Overgrown shrubs can be pruned back to about three feet in height without risk of injury. Then you should perform annual trimming to to keep its appearance maintained, removing any unsightly or overgrown branches only. Here is more info: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rose-of-sharon/pruning-rose-of-sharon.htm
