Hollyhock

Grow hollyhocks in well-drained loam with a pH of 6.0-8.0 and moderate fertility. Add compost before planting and stake tall flower stems in exposed sites; many plants are biennial or short-lived perennials.

Sun

Full sun

Water

1 in/week

Spacing

18 in

First harvest

Biennial; blooms year 2

Tips

• Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep and thin seedlings to at least 18 inches apart.
• Water the soil deeply to provide about 1 inch weekly, keeping leaves dry.
• Apply compost in spring and avoid excessive nitrogen that produces weak stems.
• Watch for orange-brown rust pustules under leaves and promptly discard infected foliage.
• Cut spent stalks near the base unless you want to save seed or allow self-sowing.