Growing Rose of Sharon in Pots – A Complete Guide

The rose of Sharon is a large hardy flowering shrub that produces abundant blooms throughout summer. With proper care, this beauty can also thrive when grown in a pot or container. Below is a comprehensive guide on successfully growing rose of Sharon in pots.

Overview of Rose of Sharon

Also known as Hibiscus syriacus, the rose of Sharon is a deciduous woody shrub. It is a member of the Malvaceae family, which also includes hibiscus.

Native to Asia and the Mediterranean region, this plant grows up to 12 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide The rose of Sharon features thick green leaves and showy, hibiscus-like flowers in shades of white, pink, purple or red It blooms from midsummer into fall.

Hardy in USDA zones 5-9, this plant tolerates heat, humidity and some drought once established. It grows best in full sun locations with well-drained soil.

Choosing the Right Pot

To grow rose of Sharon in a container, select the largest pot possible to accommodate the plant’s mature size.

For compact dwarf cultivars under 4 feet tall, use at least a 12-16 inch diameter pot. For larger varieties, choose at least an 18-24 inch diameter container.

The pot must have drainage holes and be made of weather-resistant material like plastic, resin, concrete or glazed terra cotta.

Make sure the pot is sturdy enough to support the plant’s mature size and weight without tipping over. Place potted rose of Sharon plants on casters or plant dollies to make moving them easier.

Best Potting Mix

Use a high quality commercial potting mix instead of garden soil to avoid drainage issues. The potting media should contain organic material like bark or peat to retain some moisture while still draining well.

You can blend compost into potting mix to provide nutrition. Avoid moisture-retaining additives like water crystals which can lead to soggy soil.

Adding a layer of mulch on top of the soil will help retain moisture and prevent weeds. Replenish the mulch annually as it decomposes.

Planting and Position

Plant the rose of Sharon into its container in spring once all danger of frost has passed. Water the plant thoroughly after planting to remove air pockets.

Make sure the base of the main stems sits 1-2 inches below the top rim of the pot. Allow enough room for new growth each season.

Situate the potted plant in a sunny outdoor location protected from strong winds. Move the container to a sheltered area or garage if temperatures drop below 25°F.

Watering Needs

Check soil moisture frequently, especially during the first year as the rose of Sharon establishes. Water whenever the top few inches become dry.

Container plants need more frequent watering than in-ground plantings. Expect to water a potted rose of Sharon at least twice per week in warm weather, adjusting as needed.

Allow excess moisture to drain out of the container after watering. Never let potted rose of Sharon plants sit in soggy soil, which can cause root rot.

Fertilizer Requirements

In spring, work a slow-release granular fertilizer into the potting mix per package instructions. This provides steady nutrition for several months.

You can also feed container rose of Sharon monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Dilute liquid feeds to half strength to avoid burn.

Excess fertilizer can damage rose of Sharon. Watch for leaf scorch and reduce applications if it occurs.

Pruning Maintenance

In late winter, prune back overgrown rose of Sharon shrubs by 1/3 their size. This stimulates dense new growth.

Prune out any dead or damaged branches at any time. For plants in containers, also remove crossing or interior branches to encourage good outward growth.

Pinching off spent flowers as they fade will neaten plants. It may also promote additional blooming later in the season.

Overwintering Care

In zones 5 and below, containerized rose of Sharon will need winter protection. Place pots in a sheltered area and wrap or cover them to guard against hard freezes.

Stop fertilizing by September so plants harden off for dormancy. Prune back leggy growth in late fall. Wrap or cover pots when temperatures drop below 25°F.

Remove winter coverings in spring after the last frost. Resume fertilizing and prune plants for the new season. Discard any winter-damaged foliage.

Tips for Healthy Potted Plants

• Select compact dwarf varieties under 5 feet tall for easiest long-term container growing.

• Use the largest pot size possible and sturdy saucers to avoid tipping.

• Check soil moisture frequently and don’t let pots dry out completely.

• Apply slow-release granular fertilizer each spring. Supplement monthly with diluted liquid feeds.

• Prune actively to control size and shape. Remove dead branches promptly.

• Bring container plants to a sheltered area or garage if frost threatens.

• Transplant into a larger pot every 2-3 years as the shrub grows.

Common Problems

Poor flowering: This could arise from too much shade or fertilizer. Prune plants after blooming to encourage new growth.

Leaf scorch: Yellow or brown leaf edges indicate too much fertilizer. Leach the soil and don’t fertilize for a few months.

Leggy growth: Prune back overgrown shoots in late winter to reshape plants. Pinch off spent blooms during summer.

Tipping containers: Repot frequently to accommodate expanding root systems and plant size. Use saucers and casters for stability.

Rotting roots: Allow soil to dry between waterings. Discard plants with extensive rot and sterilize containers before replanting.

Alternative Ways to Grow Rose of Sharon

While containers offer flexibility, rose of Sharon can also thrive when grown:

• In garden beds– Space plants 4-6 feet apart in well-draining soil and full sun. Amend soil with compost.

• As hedges – Prune closely to keep dense and compact. Space 2-3 feet apart for a continuous row.

• As tree forms – Select a single-trunked variety. Remove lower branches as it grows to elevate the canopy.

With the right variety, care and pruning, rose of Sharon provides graceful beauty through the seasons whether grown in garden beds or containers. Enjoy their vivid blooms to add summer interest to gardens or patios.