2023 How To Grow And Care Tree Mallow: Expert Latest Advice

Understanding the Tree Mallow Plant

Tree mallow (Lavatera spp.) is a group of evergreen shrubs from the hibiscus family. Tree mallow plants have large palmate leaves and produce funnel-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple and white. There are many different cultivars of tree mallow with various flowering times, mature sizes and growth habits. Keeping this plant requires care tree mallow throughout the year to ensure healthy growth and bloom.
More comprehensive information and care guidelines can be read here.

care tree mallow, leaves, potted green plant beside wall — *Photo by* *Lauren Mancke* / *Unsplash*

Selecting the Perfect Location

The location where you plant tree mallow will determine how well it thrives. Several key factors need to be considered when choosing a spot in your yard or garden.

Sunlight is an essential requirement for tree mallow to grow well. It prefers full sun, meaning it needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Plants that receive less sun will bloom less and struggle to establish.

Soil type also impacts tree mallow growth. It prefers well-drained, loamy soil that is slightly acidic. Clay or constantly wet soil should be avoided. To test the soil’s drainage, dig a hole and fill it with water – if the water remains for more than an hour, you may need to amend the soil.

Hardiness zone must line up with the tree mallow variety you select. Check the plant tag or catalog to determine the hardiness zone of the variety, then match it to your USDA growing zone. Planting tree mallow in a zone that’s too cold can lead to winter dieback or death.

Wind resistance is a factor for exposed sites. Tree mallow typically grows 1-3 feet tall, so it can withstand some wind but not excessive gusts. Provide partial wind protection if needed.

The optimal location is:
<ul style=”list-style-type:disc”>
<li>Full sun exposure for at least 6 hours daily</li>
<li>Well-drained, slightly acidic soil</li>
<li>Protected from strong winds </li>
<li>Within the appropriate hardiness zone for the variety</li>
</ul>

With these key considerations in mind, you can select the perfect spot to grow tree mallow and ensure a bountiful display of blooms.

care tree mallow, leaves, photo of green fern plant — *Photo by* *Teemu Paananen* / *Unsplash*

Planting Tree Mallow Seeds or Seedlings

You can grow tree mallow plants from seed or seedlings. Here are the steps to successfully establish these plants:

When planting from seeds, sow them directly in the ground in spring after the last frost.Tree mallow seeds are very small, so a light covering of soil is sufficient, around 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Plant the seeds about 12 inches apart.

Water the seeded areas regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Germination can take 1-4 weeks, so patience is required when starting from seed. Once seedlings emerge and develop their first true leaves, thin them out leaving the strongest seedlings 9 to 12 inches apart.

When planting seedlings , choose a warm day in spring or early summer after the threat of frost has passed. Prepare the planting hole so it is 1-2 times wider and deeper than the rootball.Water the plant well before and after planting. Fill the hole and firmly press soil around the roots to stabilize the plant.

Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch such as shredded bark or leaves around the base to help conserve moisture, suppress weeds and moderate soil temperatures. But avoid piling mulch against the crowns or stems of young plants.

After planting, continue to regularly water your new tree mallow plants to establish a strong root system.When leaves begin to turn a dull color or roll up, use a complete fertilizer formulated for blooming plants and shrubs. Apply every 4-6 weeks while the plants are actively growing.

By following these steps for either seeding or planting seedlings , you’ll set your tree mallow up for success. These plants require attentive care during their first year to establish good habits for years of effortless enjoyment.

care tree mallow, tree, red and brown leafy tree at daytime — *Photo by* *Aaron Burden* / *Unsplash*

Proper Watering and Fertilizing Techniques

To grow healthy tree mallow plants, proper watering and fertilizing techniques are essential. Here are the basics:

Watering: For the first year, tree mallow needs regular watering to help establish a strong root system. After that, watering once a week should suffice during the growing season.

During periods of hot weather, you may need to water twice a week.Check the soil moisture with your finger – if the top few inches are dry, it’s time to water.

The best time to water is in the early morning, when evaporation rates are lowest. Water deeply, soaking the entire root zone. Avoid overhead irrigation, which can lead to fungal diseases.

In colder months when growth slows, water only as needed to keep the soil from drying out completely. Tree mallow is drought tolerant once established, but still benefits from periodic deep watering.

<ul style=”list-style-type:disc”>
<li>During establishment: water weekly </li>
<li>After establishment: water once a week during growing season, less often in winter</li>
<li>Use deep, infrequent irrigation to encourage deep root growth</li>
</ul>

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring just before active growth begins.Choose a product formulated for shrubs and flowers. Follow the label directions for correct application rates.

Continue fertilizing every 4-6 weeks through summer while growth and blooming occur. Tree mallow responds well to regular feeding, producing more blooms and luxurious foliage. However fertilize sparingly or not at all in autumn and winter when growth slows.

<ul style=”list-style-type:disc”>
<li>Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for shrubs </li>
<li>Apply in early spring before new growth begins</li>
<li>Reapply every 4-6 weeks through summer</li>
<li>Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter</li>
</ul>

By following these watering and fertilizing guidelines, you’ll provide tree mallow plants with the nourishment they need to thrive in your landscape for many years. And of course, more healthy plants mean many more blooms to enjoy!

care tree mallow, leaves, shallow photography of leaves — *Photo by* *Bart Zimny* / *Unsplash*

Pruning and Maintaining Tree Mallow

Pruning and proper maintenance are important to keep tree mallow plants healthy, attractive and flowering well. Here are the basics:

Pruning: Tree mallow benefits from light, annual pruning to remove dead or diseased wood. This helps rebuild a strong structure with fewer but better-placed branches.

Prune immediately after the plant finishes flowering, typically in late summer or early fall. Use sharp, sterilized pruners and cut back to an outward-facing bud or branch.

If growth becomes leggy or overcrowded, prune back individual branches by 1/3 to encourage dense, bushy growth. Avoid heavy pruning that removes more than 1/4 of the plant’s total foliage.

Also remove faded flowers through a process called “deadheading.” This encourages additional blooms and neater appearance. Simply pinch or cut off spent flower heads just above a leaf bud.

Winter care: Tree mallow is evergreen and requires minimal care over winter. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to help insulate roots from extreme cold and temperature fluctuations.

Deaden foliage of fire-damaged or discolored leaves to improve appearance. Prune out any dead or damaged branches after leaves drop in very early spring.

Grooming: Sweep up leaves and debris that collects on plants throughout the year. Tree mallow tends to drop lower leaves as it ages, exposing bare stems. Periodically remove these leaves to expose flower buds.

With consistent pruning and proper maintenance using these guidelines, you can keep tree mallow looking nice and welcoming blooms year after year:

<ul style=”list-style-type:disc”>
<li>Prune immediately after flowering in late summer or early fall </li>
<li>Remove up to 1/4 of total growth to build structure and encourage density</li>
<li>Deadhead faded flowers to encourage additional blooms </li>
<li>Apply 2-3 inches of winter mulch</li>
<li>Prune out dead or damaged stems in early spring</li>
</ul>

care tree mallow, leaves, closeup photo of green leafed plants — *Photo by* *Bannon Morrissy* / *Unsplash*

Common Pests and Diseases: Prevention and Treatment

Like most plants, tree mallow suffers from several common pests and diseases that gardeners must be aware of and prepared to tackle. Here are the main issues affecting tree mallow and how to deal with them:

Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can build up rapidly, stunting growth and causing foliage to yellow and distort. Wash aphids off with a strong spray of water or use an insecticidal soap. As a last resort, apply a recommended insecticide.

Spider mites: These tiny spider-like pests cause leaf stippling and webbing. Isolate infected plants and spray them vigorously with water. Use a miticide only if needed.

Powdery mildew: This fungal disease coats leaves with a white, powdery substance and stunts growth. Prune away infected parts and improve air circulation. Apply a fungicide only as needed.

Brown scale: These armored scales attach to twigs and leaves, sucking plant fluids and excreting sticky honeydew.Hand pick young scales or use horticultural oil spray in dormant season.

<ul style=”list-style-type:disc”>
<li>Wash plants thoroughly with water to dislodge pests </li>
<li>For stubborn infestations, use approved insecticidal soaps or miticides</li>
<li>As a last resort, apply recommended insecticides or fungicides</li>
<li>Prune away infected plant parts to contain disease problems</li>
<li>Improve air circulation and avoid overhead irrigation to reduce issues</li>
</ul>

Being proactive and vigilant in monitoring tree mallows regularly for any signs of problems is key to keeping issues from spiraling out of control. By practicing integrated pest management strategies that prioritize less-toxic options, you can minimize pesticide use while still keeping your tree mallow plants thriving for years to come.