How to Grow Rose of Sharon

Rose of Sharon enjoys full sun, although they will still grow in partial sun locations but may bloom less. They are wonderfully carefree about their soil as long as it is well-drained. Even clay soils are acceptable for these plants, and they are moderately tolerant of salt, which makes them excellent shrubs to plant near the road or driveway. 

They tolerate a wide range of pH, and although they prefer loamy, slightly moist soils, most places in the yard will do. Most varieties available are cold hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Smaller Rose of Sharon do very well in large containers and can make an excellent, colorful addition to a patio or outdoor living space. Containerized shrubs also work well for northern gardeners whose cold winters are too much for these flowering plants.

When To Plant Rose of Sharon

Rose of Sharon can be planted in either spring or fall, depending on your region. In areas with prolonged frozen ground, you’ll find better success with spring plantings to allow roots to establish before cold weather. 

Southern gardeners can utilize fall planting, allowing the plant to establish itself after summer’s heat and dry spells are over.

How To Plant Rose of Sharon

Plant Rose of Sharon shrubs like other perennials. Pay attention to their mature size and choose a spot where they’ll fit into your plan as they grow. A large shrub in a small space is no fun for you or the plant. 

1. Dig a hole at least twice as wide as the root ball and about as deep. Don’t dig a vertical-sided well. The hole should have sloped sides.
2. Loosen the soil in the bottom of the hole to help with drainage. 
3. Water the shrub well an hour before planting.
4. Remove the shrub from its container.  If it doesn’t want to come loose, lay the container on its side and roll it back and forth, applying enough pressure to deform the plastic container. It should pop free. 
5. Prune any circling or girdling roots. Loosen up rootbound plants by scoring the edges of the root ball with your soil knife or shovel. 
6. Test fit the shrub in the hole, ensuring the plant will sit at the same level in the new spot. Don’t bury it too deeply. Adjust the depth of the hole as necessary.
7. Plant the shrub and backfill the hole with the soil you removed. Don’t forget to keep it upright! Pause part way and water thoroughly, then continue adding soil. Firm the soil around the roots to avoid air pockets and get good root-to-soil contact.
8. Make a slightly raised berm around the plant to keep water from running away. 
9. Water your Rose of Sharon thoroughly, letting water soak into the soil.
10. Mulch underneath to keep weeds down and keep the soil moist. Extend the mulch two feet from the stems and apply it 3 to 4 inches thick. Don’t allow the mulch to touch the stem.