Butterfly Bush and Hardy Hibiscus are Late to Emerge Plants

How can I tell if my butterfly bush and hardy hibiscus are dead? I cut them back in late winter but have yet to see any signs of growth.

Be patient. Both of these plants are slow to emerge in spring. Cool spring weather can delay them more than usual. Wait until at least mid to late June before you dig and replace these plants. One summer my butterfly bush didn't start to show signs of growth until early July and my hardy hibiscus didn’t appear until late June. Both grew to their normal large size and provided a great floral display in my garden.