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Rose of Sharon Bud Drop: Gall Midge and Fertilizer Needs

Why Rose of Sharon Buds Show Color But Won't Open

Michigan gardener: 3-year-old Rose of Sharon gets red-tipped buds that won't open, turn yellow. Morning sun until 1 PM. Tried Miracle-Gro Bloom Booster. Professional landscaper planted it.

Two Likely Causes

Gall midge: Tiny yellow larvae in buds. Test: seal buds in plastic bag 1-2 days, check for larvae on bag. Treat: Orthene spray.
Hungry plant: Rose of Sharon = greedy feeder. Fertilize at half-strength EVERY watering.

Sun Requirement

Needs full sun. Consider spring transplant to sunnier location.

Roses: Rose of Sharon Bud Drop: Water, Fertilizer, or Pests?; Why Rose of Sharon Buds Won’t Open: Botrytis Blight; Transplanted Climbing Rose Won't Bloom: Patience and Stress Management; Second-Year Roses Not Blooming—Check for Winter Kill; Old Rose Bush Won't Bloom After Regrowing from Roots; Why a Newly Planted Red Rose Failed to Break Dormancy in West Virginia; Rose Bush Stopped Blooming After Severe Pruning by Condo Corp; Tree Rose 'Playboy' Not Blooming After Purchase – Forced Growth; Gertrude Jekyll Rose Buds Not Opening – Rose Midge Infestation; Why Won't My Climbing Rose Bush Bloom?

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