Buds Fail to Open on Rose of Sharon
I have a pink rose of Sharon bush that is 4 years old. It buds fully, but then the blooms fail to open. What is the problem? My white rose of Sharon opens just fine.
Some plants, like people, are more susceptible to stress. Too much or not enough water or fertilizer can cause buds to drop before opening. Start by evaluating the current growing conditions. Though both plants receive the same care the soil or light may vary causing problems for the pink flowering variety and not your white one. For best results keep the soil moist, avoiding extremes on either end. Mulch the surrounding soil with shredded leaves, bark or other material to help keep conserve water and keep the soil consistently moist. Avoid excess fertilization. Most gardeners tend to kill their plants with kindness than neglect. Have a soil test to find out what changes, if any you need to make with your feeding schedule.
Related
Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars
Jan. 28, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Past, Present & Future of Mitchell Park and its Conservatory, the Domes
Register here
Feb. 13 - 15, 2026
PBS Wisconsin
Garden & Green Living EXPO
Madison, WI
More information
Feb. 18, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Plants that Go the Distance
Register here
Feb. 25, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Flowering Houseplants
Register here
Mar. 5, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Start New Plants from Seeds, Cuttings and More
Register here
Mar. 11, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Save Money & Boost Your Growing Success with Bare Root Plants
Register here
Mar. 18, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Patio, Deck and Balcony Gardens
Register here
March 26, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Getting Started Growing Vegetable and Flower Gardens
Register here
April 1, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Growing a Bountiful Harvest
Register here
May 6, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Adding Native Plants
to Any Size Gardening Space
Register here
June 3, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Managing Your Landscape
with Pollinators in Mind
Register here
WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS
Learn More


