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Do I prune a baby hibiscus?

18 years ago

I have a Rose of Sharon, Blue Satin, that I planted last June. It's maybe 1 foot tall now. Being that it's still so small, do I prune it? Are there any good links on exactly how to do this as I'm not real sure what I'm doing...especailly since it seems like there's not much to prune...Thanks!

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Comments (3)

beachbarbie
18 years ago
Hhhmmmm....
If you were talking about a tropical hibiscus, I'd definately know the answer.
BUT! I bet you can go ahead and prune. Those plants are pretty hardy.
Why are you thinking about pruning it? To make it bushier?
Barb
kathleenor
18 years ago
Sorry I should have been more specific. Yes they are in pots so I would like to keep them from getting too tall. Maybe they are 3 ft tall now. Also what type of fertilizer?

Thank you
jenny_in_se_pa
18 years ago
I usually let babies grow before pruning so they can establish a good root system. Since hibs bloom on new growth, they can be pruned without losing blooms during a season in warmer areas. However I think that once yours is established, then you can prune for size and know that it can regrow in the shape you want because it would then have a good root base.

They can take standard fertilizers like Osmocote (which is slow-release and takes the work out of fertilizing - just add some on top of the soil in the pot every 3 - 6 months depending on the label directions).

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