How to Trim a Northern Hibiscus

The rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus), sometimes referred to as the northern hibiscus or the Althea, is an upright, flowering deciduous shrub native to India and China. Outdoors, the rose of Sharon grows only in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9, but it can also thrive as an indoor potted plant. Growing from 8 to 10 feet in height and 6 to 8 feet in width, this ornamental plant produces attractive 2- to 4-inch-long shiny, dark green leaves that turn yellow-green in fall, and 2- to 4-inch-wide flowers in white, blue, pink or purple. Like other hibiscus varieties, it requires regular yearly pruning to control its size and to encourage fuller growth and larger blossoms.

Pruning shears
70 percent alcohol solution

Instructions

- 1
  Disinfect your pruning shears before pruning by wiping them down with a 70 percent alcohol solution. Also disinfect the shears between cuts, particularly if disease is suspected.
- 2
  Choose a pruning method for the flower production you want. For numerous small flowers, prune lightly and infrequently. For fewer, larger flowers, prune severely and frequently throughout the year.
- 3
  Remove all dead growth as it appears to prevent disease from developing, cutting down to ground level.
- 4
  Prune stems back by 1/3 of the length during regular size-control pruning, or the plant will become floppy and arched in shape.
- 5
  Make cuts 1/4 inch above lateral stem nodes to encourage lateral growth for a fuller look. If the plant appears overly leggy and thin, hard prune it to just above ground level.
- 6
  Pinch back stem tips throughout the summer for continued flowering.
- 7
  Prune all plants back to two to three buds in the late dormant season.

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