Last summer I planted outdoor in Zone 5 a "Sweet Caroline" hibiscus. The tag said 'Late Sprouting'. I guess it is a cution telling me not to think that it is dead and not to dig it out? When do you think it will re-sprout in Zone 5a if srouting time is Zone dependent (early, mid or late June, or July)? I had similar experience with a Rose of Sharon. For two years it sprouted late and then it did not make it on the 3rd year. I never mulched that one. I have mulched "Sweet Caroline" with generous amount of maple leaves. Any other 'hibiscus culture' recommendations for good plant health and flowering?