My rose of sharon had some drost damage last winter 2023-24. On branch did well, several ither struggled to put out leaves - tho there were several small ones formed. Shoul I cut hose away or allow her another year to try again?
I have a purple version that’s very old - 20yr plus and largely ignored I’d suggest waiting to see what happens next spring
It sounds like your Rose of Sharon has experienced some frost damage, which is common, especially after harsh winters. Since one branch is doing well and others have formed small leaves, the plant may still have the potential to recover. I’d recommend giving it another year to see if those struggling branches can bounce back. Plants often put energy into healing and may improve next season. However, if the branches remain weak or appear dead by next spring, it might be best to prune them to encourage healthy new growth. You could also lightly trim the damaged areas now to stimulate recovery.
I would be surprised if your Rose of Sharon suffered frost damage as they are hardy to -30˚C. Zone 5-9. I have grown them for 45 years and the original plants are still in the same locations and are thriving and flowering profusely. Still flowers hanging on today. I am in the same hardiness zone as you. They also respond well to pruning and shaping so I would use the opportunity to remove any weak branches and perhaps trim the others into whatever form you wish. I have one multi-stemmed shrub (Blushing Bride) and 2 in single stem umbrella forms (Blue Bird & Red Heart). They can also self seed and I have dug up a number and given them away and they are growing well. Your plant, like many newly planted plants or shrubs, could possibly just be adapting to its new environment and will likely be fine.
