Hollyhock Seeds

all there is to know about hollyhocks

Suffering a bit of an identity crisis, hollyhock has been variously described as a biennial, as an annual, or as a short-lived perennial. Due to its frequent self-sowing, hollyhock gives the perception that it is a perennial. Alternately, it may flower during its first year if planted early enough, which proves that it may be an annual. In actuality, hollyhock seeds are technically a biennial, and each plant will live its two-year life cycle on whatever schedule you sow them to.

Hollyhocks, also known as Alcea rosea, is a flower native to southwest and central Asia. Related to hibiscus plants, hollyhocks contain medicinal properties and have been used for years in traditional herbal medicine.

planting hollyhocks from seed

Hollyhocks prefer moist, rich, and well-draining soil where they can receive full sun conditions. They will tolerate some partial shade if necessary. Soak your seeds in warm water for about 12 hours before planting.

Directly sow your seeds outdoors about one week before the expected final frost. Alternatively, you may choose to start your seeds indoors nine weeks before the final frost, transplanting outdoors about two to three weeks after the final frost. Compress seeds into the soil firmly without covering, as hollyhocks require sunlight to germinate. If starting indoors, use tall pots to transplant to accommodate hollyhocks' long taproots.

To extend the two to three year lifespan of your hollyhocks, remove dead flowers as soon as they wither. Additionally, in cooler regions, you can cut the hollyhocks down and place mulch around the base of the plants. Prevent rust and disease in your plants by watering from below to promote good air circulation between the plants.

hollyhock's endless possibilities

If you want to enjoy both single and semi-double blooms of hollyhocks in your garden this year, check out Eden Brothers' Indian Spring Hollyhock Seed Mix! Or maybe you're aiming for something with a classy and simple look, like the gorgeous, white blooms of our Majorette Double White Hollyhock Seed Mix. The options are endless with these gorgeous blooms!

For more information about planting, growing, and caring for hollyhock flower seed, see the Hollyhock Seeds Planting Guide.