How to Fertilize Pink Althea Trees

Pink althea (Hibiscus syriacus) — a tender, flowering perennial — is usually referred to by one of its other common names: rose of Sharon. Although it is hardy only in frost-free areas, althea trees are widely grown in containers in colder areas. In frost-free locations, the tree blooms constantly. Potted specimens bloom nearly all year long as well.

Things You'll Need

Compost
Organic mulch
Granulated 5-10-10 slow-release fertilizer

Water-soluble fertilizer
Hose-end sprayer

Instructions

- 1
  Top-dress the soil around the base of the pink althea tree with compost in late spring, when new growth begins to emerge from the ground. Cover the compost with 3 to 4 inches of organic mulch of shredded bark or woodchips. The mulch will keep the compost from washing away, reduce the growth of weeds and keep moisture in the soil. As the mulch decomposes, it will add additional nutrients to the soil.
- 2
  Spread granulated, slow-release 5-10-10 fertilizer around the base of the tree in early spring. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations on the product label. Pull back the mulch and scatter the granules around the base of the tree, but do not let the granules touch the trunk. Scratch the fertilizer into the soil with a garden claw and replace the mulch. Water the area thoroughly with a hose nozzle sprayer.
- 3
  Make a second, identical application of granulated fertilizer approximately eight weeks after the first application.
- 4
  Spray the foliage with water-soluble fertilizer if your pink althea tree has slow, spindly growth or yellowish foliage. It will give it a boost, much like vitamins give humans a boost. Use a hose-end sprayer, following the manufacturer's directions.

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