Lavatera Sweet Dreams - Tree Mallow

Plant Lavateras in full sun or partial shade in rich and moist but well-drained soil. Protect them from cold and drying winds in colder regions. Feel free to cut the flowers and make bouquets as pruning stimulates growth and makes the plants stronger. At the start of winter, trim them back to 50 cm (20in), above the first buds, and if the winter is very cold, mulch your plants. You can also give them a shaping pruning in spring. These plants have a lifespan of 5 to 6 years. In large flower beds, replace one out of three plants each year. Lavateras can be easily propagated by cuttings. Every year, as soon as the buds swell in March, leave only two or three buds at the base of the new shoots, to create a sturdy framework. Remove excess or misplaced old wood. Lavateras can be prone to rust, root rot, and fungal infections from heavy soil.