Hi edlincoln, just my personal experience, no expert....I planted 2 new Rose of Sharon bushes in Sept of last year, and only got a few flowers...I think they work on their roots a lot the first year, and if they have the energy they bloom. They only bloom on new wood too. Also, they wake up much later than other plants in the spring as they require a warmer soil temperature before leafing out. I would say close to August for blooms. I put mulch around it, but not around 6" from the trunk, don't want rot, but helps keep moisture in and protect roots in winter. Maybe someone else will know more. Goodluck, I bet it'll be beautiful with blooms this coming summer....can't wait for mine!