@Pastockbridge Hi Penny!
you have been given alot of good advice. Just to add a couple of things. When you planted did you dig the hole twice as deep and twice as wide as the pot?
The surrounding soil needs aeration and to be loosened for the roots to spread. Most Althea's roots are bound in pots, did you pry them loose, and rinse off some of the soil around the root ball before planting?