![]() The name is derived from "holy" and "hoc," an Anglo Saxon word for this type of flower. Usually blooms in the second year.Īs its appearance suggests, Hollyhock (Alcea rosea) is a relative of the exotic hibiscus of the tropics records show that the first of the plants brought to Europe came with the Crusaders from the Holy Land, by way of their original home, China. Many people plant the large, colorful blossoms in narrow spaces with a lot of headroom, such as along walls or fences. This old-fashioned favorite is a popular pick for many flower enthusiasts. IN-STOCK ORDERS SHIP THE NEXT BUSINESS DAY VIA THE US POST OFFICE. Rub them lightly to separate the seed from the pods, and store the cleaned hollyhock seed in a cool, dry place. Remove the pods and spread them out to dry away from direct sunlight. ![]() When the outer covering of the pod begins to fold back to reveal the brown seeds, they have matured and are ready to be harvested. Seed Saving: After the hollyhock flowers have finished blooming, they will drop their petals and a fuzzy seed pod will form. Opinions differ on the best method of treatment, so experimentation may be necessary. Because the stems secrete a sticky substance that causes them to become unable to draw in water, the stalks will immediately droop unless the ends are seared either with a flame or boiling water. Harvesting: Though hollyhocks reach their full potential when displayed in the garden, they can be used for cut flowers after a simple treatment. Hollyhock also grows well as a container plant and attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. After the first frost of autumn, cut the stalks of the hollyhocks down to ground level and cover with a layer of mulch for protection remove the mulch in the spring. Hollyhock self sows readily, making it practically perennial unless the spent blossoms are removed to prevent seed development. Pinching off the tips of the stalks for several weeks will cause fuller, shorter growth. While some first year plants may bloom, full blooming will occur in the second year of growth. Watch young plants especially for slugs and snails. If leaves become infected by rust, remove them immediately. Water carefully to avoid getting the foliage wet, since this often leads to rust and other diseases. Growing: When the hollyhocks bloom, make sure the soil does not dry out these plants do not tolerate dry soil. After the last hard frost or when the plants grow big enough to handle safely, transplant them. To start seed indoors, plant the seeds just below the surface of the soil keep the soil moist and at a temperature of 70 degrees F until germination. Plant the hollyhock seeds no more than 1/4" deep and do not allow the soil to dry out until the seeds germinate, which should occur in 14-21 days. This plant grows best in full sun and rich soil, in a protected location. Sowing: For early spring growth, direct sow in August or September hollyhock seeds can also be spring planted after the last spring frost.
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