Question
We planted a Rose of Sharon 4 years ago in memory of my husband's mother who passed away.  We planted it in full sun and keep the ground around it weeded.  We got minimal blooms the first couple of years and last year had none.  We got it as a very small (6-8 inches) plant and it is now still only about 2 1/2 feet tall.  What can I do to encourage growth and flowering?  The variety we got is supposed to have three different colored flowers on it, but we have yet to see any.

Thanks for your help.

Susan

Answer
There are many possible answers as to why your rose of sharon isn't flowering.

Shade: Rose of sharon will not bloom up to its full capabilities if given too much shade.
Rot: During rainy summers, rot can set in and ruin the flower bud (although you may not notice it from the outside). The same effect can be produced by excessive watering, if you water overhead.
Drought: Conversely, during dry summers, rose of sharon flower buds may be damaged from drought and fail to open.
Fertilizer: too much fertilizer will stop the plant from flowering.
This shrub can be very fussy so here is a website to help you.
http://www.azcentral.com/style/hfe/outdoors/articles/2005/09/08/20050908sharon09...