Is it too late to trim Roses of Sharon bushes? If so, how much? They are quite tall 8-9 feet) and thin. I am worried about winter winds.
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Tip of the Week: Fertilize lawn now before winter slumber
Click here for gardening help from Dennis Patton, Horticulture Agent.
November: November Garden Calendar
Pruning
No matter what the plant - pruning should be avoided in the fall unless it is dead or a hazard. With that being said it is best to prune the Rose of Sharon just before it breaks bud in the spring.
Two methods of pruning - one cut the entire plant back to the ground. This is extreme but new shoots will emerge and grow rapidly. The other method is to remove about 1/4 or so of the oldest, thickest branches to the ground each year. This will slowly rejuvenate the plant.
So set back and wait till spring.
Dennis - Johnson County Extension