Althea – Hollyhock
Tall, stately hollyhocks are classic cottage garden flowers that add beauty and charm to any summer bedding display.
TL;DR
Tall, stately hollyhocks are classic cottage garden flowers. They are available in a wide range of colors and make a beautiful background plant for summer bedding.
- Suitable site and soil: Choose a sheltered, sunny location with good air circulation and a rich, heavy, moist soil.
- Cultivation and care: Plant out potted hollyhocks in spring, feed with fertilizer in early spring, and water well during dry spells.
- Propagation: Sow seeds in shallow drills, thin out to proper spacing, or transplant in autumn for flowering the following summer.
Tall, stately hollyhocks are classic cottage garden flowers. Available in a wide range of colours, these hardy perennials and biennials make a beautiful background plant for a display of summer bedding.
Suitable site and soil. Choose a sheltered, sunny location with good air circulation and a rich, heavy, moist soil. Ideal for growing along a fence or wall to add tall interest.
Cultivation and care. Plant out potted hollyhocks in spring, with the crowns slightly below the soil surface. Feed in early spring with a reputable brand of fertilizer and water well during dry spells.
Propagation. Hollyhocks are best grown as biennials. Sow where you want them to grow in shallow drills 20cm – 8in apart. Thin out to 60cm – 2ft apart. Seeds can also be sown in a cold frame (if you have one) and transplanted in autumn to their final position, where they will flower the following summer.
Recommended varieties. A. rosea has spikes of single flowers in a range of colours, including pink, yellow and cream. Look out for ‘Chater’s Double’, which has rosette-like flowers and ‘Majorette’ and ‘Summer Carnival’, which have double flowers. They are available in mixed or separate colours, in shades of red, pink, purple, yellow, cream and white.
Pests and diseases. Rust can be a serious problem but generally affects older plants. Diseased leaves should be picked off and burnt as soon as possible. Hollyhocks are also susceptible to attack by mildew.
CONTROLLING RUST ON HOLLYHOCKS
Rust shows as brown pustules on the stems and leaves of hollyhocks. Spores spread and can affect other healthy plants. Cut down and burn stems and leaves in autumn and pour fungicide on the crown.
Tall, stately hollyhocks are classic cottage garden flowers.
More Information on Althea – hollyhock
Tall and elegant, hollyhocks are beloved flowers found in traditional cottage gardens. These hardy perennials and biennials offer a stunning display of colors, making them perfect for creating a beautiful backdrop in summer bedding arrangements. But beyond their visual appeal, hollyhocks have some fascinating characteristics that make them even more intriguing. Did you know that hollyhocks are not just pretty flowers, but they also have a rich history? They have been cultivated for centuries, with records dating back to ancient civilizations. In fact, hollyhocks have been associated with various symbolic meanings throughout history, including fertility, protection, and even healing properties. Another interesting fact about hollyhocks is their ability to attract beneficial pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are drawn to their nectar-rich flowers, making hollyhocks an important addition to any pollinator-friendly garden. By planting hollyhocks, you can support the local ecosystem and contribute to the overall health of the environment. Hollyhocks are also known for their versatility in garden design. While they are commonly used as a background plant, they can also be utilized as a focal point or as part of a mixed border. Their tall, majestic spires create vertical interest and add a touch of nostalgia to any garden setting. In conclusion, hollyhocks are not just ordinary flowers. They are a symbol of beauty, history, and ecological importance. By incorporating hollyhocks into your garden, you can enjoy their stunning blossoms while contributing to the well-being of pollinators and embracing a piece of garden heritage.
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About the author
Rupert Foxton-Smythe is a seasoned horticulturist and avid plant enthusiast with over three decades of experience in the field of botany. As a leading expert at Houseplant Guru, Rupert brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for all things green.
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