Description

Hollyhock is a robust biennial plant known for its fully-double flowers in shades of scarlet, pink, white, purple, brown, and yellow, which grow on strong spikes.

It can reach heights of 5 to 6 feet and blooms from May through October, making it a favorite among hummingbirds and butterflies.

Ideal for cottage gardens, wildflower patches, and formal flower beds, hollyhocks thrive when planted from seeds in August or September. Established plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil, although they can tolerate various soil conditions and some light shade.

While hollyhocks have a relatively short lifespan, they readily self-seed, ensuring their presence for years to come.

Key Characteristics:

• Biennial
• Height: 60-72 inches
• Bloom Season: Summer
• Environment: Sun/Partial Shade
• Soil Type: Rich/Average/Moist, well-drained, pH 6.1-7.8
• USDA Zones: 3-10
• Sow Indoors: Spring (6-8 weeks before last frost)
• Sow Outdoors: Spring/Fall
• Seed Depth: 1/8 inch
• Germination Time: 21-28 days

FAQ

Question 1: When is the Best Time to Plant Hollyhock Seeds?

For best results, you can directly sow hollyhock seeds outdoors about one week before the last frost date. Alternatively, start seeds indoors approximately 9 weeks before your final frost date and transplant them outdoors 2-3 weeks after the last frost has passed.

Question 2: Where Should I Plant Hollyhock Seeds?

Plant hollyhocks in moist, nutrient-rich soil that drains well and receives full sun, although they can tolerate partial shade. Avoid planting in overly dry soil, as this can lead to hollyhock failure.

Question 3: How Do I Plant Hollyhock Seeds?

Hollyhock seeds require light to germinate, so ensure they are not covered when planting. You can optionally soak the seeds in warm water for 12 hours before planting outdoors directly on the soil surface, pressing them firmly into the soil without covering. Hollyhocks need sunlight to germinate. If starting indoors, use tall individual pots to accommodate their long taproots for later transplanting.

Question 4: How Should I Care for Hollyhock?

Hollyhocks are short-lived perennials, typically lasting 2-3 years. Extend their lifespan by deadheading faded flowers promptly. In colder climates, cutting them back and mulching can also help prolong their life. Hollyhocks are prone to rust, a fungal disease that affects lower leaves; prevent it by watering from below and ensuring good air circulation around the plants.

Question 5: Are Double Hollyhocks Perennial?

Double hollyhocks are perennial and will return each year without needing to be dug up and stored. They are winter hardy up to Zone 3 and benefit from deadheading after flowering to encourage reblooming.

Question 6: Do Double Hollyhocks Spread?

Plant double hollyhocks in a sunny location with spacing of 12 to 18 inches apart. They spread through self-seeding, so leave about three to four feet between plants to allow them to fill out over time. Keep new plantings well-watered to help them establish.

Question 7: Do Hollyhocks Come Back Every Year?

Hollyhocks are biennial or short-lived perennials. They grow foliage in the first year, flower and set seed in the second year, and then typically die.

Question 8: How Many Years Do Hollyhocks Bloom?

Hollyhocks are easy to grow, but many varieties are biennial, taking two years from seed to flower.

Question 9: Where is the Best Place to Plant Hollyhocks?

The best location for hollyhocks is in well-draining soil that receives full sun to partial shade. Due to their height, provide support such as a trellis, wall, or fence to protect them from wind damage.

Question 10: Are Hollyhocks Poisonous to Dogs?

Hollyhocks are non-poisonous to dogs and cats, though their stems and leaves may cause skin irritation due to resin or fiber.

Question 11: What Plants Pair Well with Hollyhocks?

Hollyhocks complement many perennials and shrubs in cottage gardens. Consider pairing them with roses, rose mallow, tall garden phlox, delphiniums, peonies, ornamental grasses, and foxgloves.

Question 12: How Can I Prevent Diseases in Hollyhocks?

To prevent fungal diseases like hollyhock rust and powdery mildew, plant hollyhocks in a sunny, well-ventilated area, prune regularly, avoid watering the leaves, and fertilize to boost plant immunity. Inspect regularly for beetles and use organic insecticides if necessary.

Question 13: How Can I Prevent Tall Plants from Toppling Over?

• Use supports: Stake sturdy poles or metal frames around plants and secure them to main stems or branches.
• Install plant grids: Set up grids around plants to allow stems to intertwine for stability.
• Trim and prune: Regular pruning encourages branching and stability.
• Improve soil: Enrich soil with organic matter for healthy growth and root development.
• Wind protection: Use windbreak netting or fences in windy areas to shield plants from strong winds.