I doubt that too much sun is the issue. My hardy kiwis are constantly in the sun and do not suffer. Mine are mulched and get plenty of water. Your soil in the picture does not look good. If I were you, I would remove them by taking out a good sized root ball and dig out a large hole about twice the size and depth of the root ball and put in good topsoil prior to replacing the plant. Surround it with good mulch and keep it watered and see what happens.

What about G.'Nimbus'? It has purplish-pink flowers, and finely cut feathery leaves, that are gold-tinged when young. I find it to be long-blooming, drought tolerant, good in part shade or sun, and generally quite tough. Here is a link that might be useful: geranium Nimbus

Nicole; I am so glad to hear that you have had some measure of success with your Rose of Sharon.They are really, good solid plants to grow in any garden. I am sorry that what I sen't you didn't turn out to be very much in the BLUE range but as long as you are happy with them...that is all that matters. I have a few different colours in the garden and the seedlings are obviously a mixture of these colours. They are all colourful and since they have a long bloom period, they provide interest for quite some time. Thanks for the update. Happy Gardening. Ross.

Yes, that's it. Thank you!! It's a shame...I didn't realize it was such an invasive. It is a little aggressive, but my 10-year-old patch at my old house was only about 4 feet by 4 feet, and it was a lovely filler with lots of bright colors. Sounds like I should probably dig it up at the new house? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35hmwZ4MlLM