Question
Dear David,
I have read as much as available on pruning Rose of Sharon.
None of the recommendations seem to address the problem that I have caused.
I have 3 Rose of Sharon and believe that I may have butchered them this week.  I cut 5-6 ft off the top and left about 2 ft of branches (ugly).  The trunks are about 4-5 ft tall. No branches on the lower trunk.
Should I cut the trunks to about 3 ft and let the growth from the trunks start anew or what would be your advice?

Thank you for your help.


Answer
Hi Judy,
Thanx for your question.  Rose of Sharon are very resilient.  You may cut the trunks down to three feet if you like and new growth should sprout out of them and fill back up.  Or you can leave them as they are if you prefer and they will also fill out.  This won't start happening though until the weather turns consistently warm  Rose of Sharon is related to the hibiscus and is slow to come out of winter dormancy.  I hope this helps.
Tom