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Gardeners’ Forum: “Hollyhock”

• Hollyhock

  Posted by Suzanne Postma on Wednesday, August 15, 2001 11:50 am ADT

  I planted hollyhocks 2 years ago from seed. I have 1 plant with beautiful dark purple blooms. I would like to collect the seeds from this plant. When is it a good time to plant these and or collect the seedings. I think new blooms only grow every 2 years. Am I correct?

  • re: Hollyhock

    Posted by Howard Harvey on Tuesday, September 4, 2001 12:26 am ADT

    I don't know about the two-year idea with hollyhocks. As far as I know, they are perennial- every year. In nature, hollyhocks would be about ready now , in the Montreal area, to shed its seeds. Once the blooms have dried and made seed pods, just take the seeds and scatter them where you want them to grow next year, spread a little soil over them and rake them into the soil. Hollyhocks are usually easy to grow by this method. Good luck1

  • re: Hollyhock

    Posted by L Marion on Saturday, October 27, 2001 1:48 pm ADT

    Do not cutback Hollyhock in the fall. Hollyhock are biennials and allowing the seeds to fall ensures year after year plants. Pinch out the central growing tip when the seedlings are about 4 inches tall, this will produce smaller sturdier plants. Also if you want to cut the flowers for vases, cut in the early AM and hold the cutting upside down, fill with water until full, and plug with a cotton ball. It will last 7-10 days in a vase using this method. Single flowered usually live longer than double flowers. Do not try to divide hollyhock, just move the seedlings if you don't like where they are growing. Always water at the base of the plant and avoid getting the blooms wet. Foxglove and hollyhock must set seed to stay in your garden. The seedling do not need any special treatment, I just let it go to seed and sure enough I have new seedlings the following spring. Keep in mind air curculation to avoid powdery mildew. It is important.