How Deep Does African Mallow Shrub Need to Be Planted?

The African mallow shrub, known scientifically as Hibiscus acetosella, is a stunning tropical plant that can add vibrant color and visual interest to gardens. With its large, deep burgundy leaves and big, bright hibiscus-like blooms, this plant is gaining popularity with gardeners. However, successfully growing African mallows requires properly planting them at the right depth. In this article, we’ll explore exactly how deep African mallow shrubs need to be planted to thrive.

Overview of African Mallow Shrubs

Native to Africa, the African mallow is a fast-growing perennial shrub in the hibiscus family This plant can reach heights up to 6 feet tall and spreads 3-4 feet wide when mature Its large, maple-shaped leaves emerge in a deep reddish-purple shade, later fading to green as they mature.

From midsummer into fall, African mallows produce huge flowers reminiscent of hibiscus blooms. These striking blossoms can reach up to 6 inches across and attract hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden. The flowers give way to large seed pods in fall.

Beyond ornamental uses African mallow is valued for its edible leaves, flowers and calyces. It also has a long history of medicinal use in its native regions.

Why Proper Planting Depth Matters

Planting African mallow shrubs at the correct depth is important for several reasons:

• Promotes proper moisture levels around the roots. If planted too shallow, roots can dry out. If planted too deep, drainage issues can occur.

• Allows the root system to establish properly and anchor the plant.

• Keeps the crown (where stem meets roots) at the right level to send up new growth.

• Prevents stem rot issues that can happen if the crown is buried.

• Helps the shrub put energy into above-ground growth rather than excessive root growth.

Overall, the right planting depth provides the ideal conditions for roots to thrive and supply the plant with nutrients and moisture. This enables vigorous, healthy growth.

Recommended Planting Depth

When planting African mallow shrubs, follow these guidelines for optimal depth:

• Dig a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball or container. This gives the roots room to spread out and establish.

• Ensure the top of the root ball will sit level with the surrounding soil grade. The crown where the stems emerge should be right at ground level.

• For potted plants, check that the topmost roots are just covered by soil before you remove it from the container. This indicates the correct depth the crown should be planted.

• After placing the plant in the hole, backfill around it with your native soil, tamping gently to settle it. Do not bury the crown any deeper than its original level.

• Water thoroughly after planting to saturate the root zone. The wet soil will naturally settle a bit and make a good contact with the root ball.

• Add 2-3 inches of organic mulch around each newly planted shrub to conserve moisture and reduce weeds. Keep mulch a couple inches away from the stem.

Adjusting Depth for Certain Situations

While planting at the same level as the root ball is the general rule, you may need to adjust depth slightly in certain cases:

• Heavy clay soil – Plant an inch or two higher than the root ball so the crown sits above grade. This prevents waterlogging.

• Sandy or gravelly soil – Plant at the same level or an inch lower to account for drainage and moisture loss.

• Planting late in season – Set the crown slightly higher, about 1 inch above the root ball grade. The plant has less time to settle before winter dormancy.

• Transplanting seedlings – Plant small starter plants an inch or two deeper to give more stability until the root system develops.

Step-by-Step Planting Process

Follow this complete step-by-step guide for properly planting your African mallow shrub at the ideal depth:

Choose an appropriate location

Select a site in full sun with well-draining soil. Allow plenty of space for the shrub’s mature size. Dig in organic matter to enrich the soil if needed.

Prepare the planting hole

Dig a hole at least twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. The soil at the base should be loosened to 12-18 inches deep to encourage root growth.

Remove plant from container

Turn the pot upside down, cradling the plant, and gently squeeze the sides of the pot to release the root ball. Sometimes tapping firmly on the sides or base helps loosen it.

Examine root ball

Check that the main roots and crown are at the soil surface before planting. Remove any excess soil if buried or loosen compacted roots if root bound.

Place in hole and backfill

Set the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. The crown should sit right at ground level. Backfill with your native soil.

Water thoroughly

Water the plant well until you see moisture penetrating deeply into the soil. This will settle the plant into place.

Apply mulch

Place 2-3 inches of shredded bark, leaves, straw or other organic mulch around the shrub. Avoid piling mulch onto the crown.

Monitor and adjust as needed

Check planted shrubs after a few weeks and adjust soil/mulch around any that have settled too deep or become exposed.

Tips for Planting Success

Follow these handy tips to ensure your African mallow shrubs get off to the best start when planted at the proper depth:

• Carefully follow planting guidelines on seed packets or plant tags for given varieties.

• Plant in spring once the danger of frost has passed. This gives the shrub the full growing season to establish.

• Water the planting holes a day before planting to pre-moisten soil.

• Handle new plants very gently when transplanting to avoid damaging roots or crowns.

• Plant in the cool evening hours to avoid excessive wilting. Morning planting works too.

• Make sure the soil grade slopes slightly to shed water away from the crown and stem.

Common Planting Depth Problems

Here are some typical issues that arise from improper planting depth and how to fix them:

• Too shallow – Plant is unstable and roots dry out easily. Replant at proper depth.

• Too deep – Crown and stems rot. Uncover crown and scrape away soil to expose it.

• Crown buried – Plant declines or fails to thrive. Dig down and raise the crown back up to soil level.

• Roots exposed – Add more topsoil to cover exposed roots and protect them.

Caring for African Mallow After Planting

Once your African mallow shrub is properly situated in the ground, be sure to care for it with:

• Regular deep watering the first season to establish an extensive root system
• Monthly fertilizing with a balanced 10-10-10 formula
• Light annual pruning to shape and remove dead wood
  -Prompt treatment for any diseases or pests like powdery mildew or aphids

With the right planting techniques and follow-up care, your African mallow will quickly develop into a vibrant, trouble-free addition to your outdoor space. Paying close attention to the ideal depth when first planting gives your shrub its best chance of not just surviving, but absolutely thriving for years of beauty to come.