Rose of Sharon Trees

[Kozykitten]

I would like to find out exactly how and when you prune rose of sharon "bushes" to turn them into the trees. I have a few seedlings I was given and would like to turn them into the trees as my husband loves the one we have. Thanks for any help!!

[Brad]

How big are your plants? A decent rule of thumb is to prune up about one-third the height of the plant. You should be ok to go ahead and do this now.

[Kozykitten]

They are varied heights ranging from about 1 1/2 feet to about 4 feet tall. I assume you have to prune the top in order to have it branch out, but I am not sure about the little side shoots. Do you prune then off to give it the tree appearance?