Question
I have an overgrown Rose of Sharon bush (aprox. 12+ feet tall) and a lilac bush (also about the same height) that flower only on the top.

I would like to transplant them both and prune them to produce shorter, fuller, bushes with more blooms.

What is the best time of year to do the pruning and transplanting? What is the best location for each bush (sunlight)? Will you describe the best method for transplanting?
I live in zone 6a.
Thanks!

Answer
The Rose of Sharon shrubs are very adaptable and do not mind being transplanted.However you need to do this while they are young(2 to 3 yrs old) because of their deep root system.They are not picky about the time of year to transplant,but I would do it in the fall when they have ceased bloom.Cooler weather is always the best condition to transplant.Also that way the roots will establish best and continue to bloom the next season.
The Lilacs are a bit more picky about being transplanted,but again,fall is best so that they can settle down and establish a good root system before they will bloom again in late spring to early summer(in zones 4 to 7).I suggest using fresh potting soil with plant food already mixed in when you transplant Lilacs.Also make sure the soil does not dry out and that you mulch on top after planting to retain moisture to the roots.Do not be alarmed if the Lilacs do not produce bloom the first season after transplanting.They may take another season to settle in.
Hope this is helpful and they thrive and bloom again for you!