How to Grow Hollyhocks in February: Tips, Advice, and the Best Varieties

Hollyhocks are tall, stately biennial or short-lived perennial plants that bring charm and a touch of nostalgia to gardens. Known for their towering spikes of colorful, saucer-shaped flowers, hollyhocks are a favorite in cottage gardens, borders, and against fences or walls. Starting hollyhocks indoors in February gives them a head start for strong, healthy growth and spectacular blooms in summer.

This guide provides all the essential information you need to grow hollyhocks successfully, including the best varieties, sowing and planting tips, care advice, and design ideas.

Introduction: Why Grow Hollyhocks in February?

Hollyhocks thrive when started early, making February the perfect time to sow seeds indoors. These iconic flowers grow tall and bloom in a wide range of colors, creating an eye-catching display. Starting hollyhocks early allows them to establish well, producing sturdy plants that will reward you with a striking vertical presence in your garden.

1. Choosing the Best Hollyhock Varieties

Hollyhocks come in various colors, heights, and flower types, from classic single blooms to luxurious doubles.

1.1 Classic Single Varieties

• ‘Blacknight’: A striking variety with deep, nearly black blooms, perfect for dramatic borders.
• ‘Halo Mix’: Features bold single flowers with contrasting centers, available in multiple colors.

1.2 Double and Semi-Double Varieties

• ‘Chater’s Double’: Known for its tall spikes of densely-packed, ruffled flowers in vibrant shades.
• ‘Peaches ‘n’ Dreams’: Offers soft peach and cream double blooms, ideal for cottage gardens.

1.3 Dwarf Varieties

• ‘Queeny Purple’: A compact hollyhock with vivid purple flowers, suitable for small spaces and containers.
• ‘Majorette Mix’: A dwarf variety with semi-double blooms in a mix of bright colors.

2. Sowing Hollyhock Seeds in February

Starting hollyhocks indoors in February ensures they’ll be ready to thrive once transplanted outdoors.

2.1 Preparing for Sowing

1. Use seed trays or small pots filled with a light, well-draining seed compost.
2. Lightly moisten the compost before sowing.

2.2 How to Sow Hollyhock Seeds

1. Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep and cover them lightly with compost.
2. Place the trays in a bright location with a temperature of 60–65°F (15–18°C).

2.3 Germination

• Hollyhock seeds typically germinate within 10–14 days. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

3. Transplanting and Planting Hollyhocks

3.1 Pricking Out Seedlings

• When seedlings develop their first true leaves, carefully transplant them into individual pots to encourage strong root systems.

3.2 Hardening Off

• Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them outside during the day for 7–10 days before planting out.

3.3 Planting Out

• Transplant hollyhocks outdoors in late spring after the last frost.
• Space plants 18–24 inches apart, allowing ample room for their tall growth habit.

4. Caring for Hollyhocks

4.1 Watering

• Water hollyhocks regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy.
• Established plants are relatively drought-tolerant but will perform best with consistent watering.

4.2 Feeding

• Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to support strong growth and abundant blooms.

4.3 Staking

• Due to their height, hollyhocks may require staking to prevent their stems from bending or breaking in wind or rain.

4.4 Deadheading

• Remove spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering and prevent the plants from going to seed prematurely.

4.5 Mulching

• Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

5. Protecting Hollyhocks from Pests and Diseases

5.1 Common Pests

• Aphids: Spray with insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators like ladybirds.
• Slugs and Snails: Use organic barriers or pellets to protect young plants.

5.2 Common Diseases

• Rust: A common issue with hollyhocks. Remove affected leaves and ensure good airflow around the plants. Avoid overhead watering.
• Powdery Mildew: Prevent by maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overcrowding.

6. Designing with Hollyhocks

6.1 Cottage Gardens

• Plant hollyhocks alongside other cottage garden favorites like foxgloves, lupines, and delphiniums for a traditional, romantic look.

6.2 Backdrops and Fences

• Use hollyhocks to create stunning vertical accents along fences, walls, or as a backdrop to lower-growing plants.

6.3 Mixed Borders

• Combine hollyhocks with shrubs, ornamental grasses, or flowering perennials for a layered, dynamic border.

7. Benefits of Growing Hollyhocks

• Vertical Impact: Their tall spikes create a dramatic and elegant presence in any garden.
• Wide Color Range: Hollyhocks bloom in nearly every color, offering versatility in garden design.
• Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, hollyhocks require minimal care.
• Self-Seeding: Hollyhocks often reseed themselves, ensuring flowers for years to come.

Conclusion: Start Growing Hollyhocks for Stunning Summer Blooms

Growing hollyhocks in February is an excellent way to enjoy their tall, colorful blooms and timeless charm. By starting seeds early, providing proper care, and selecting the right varieties, you’ll create a stunning display that enhances your garden all season long. Whether you’re planting them in borders, cottage gardens, or against fences, hollyhocks are sure to be a showstopper.

Happy gardening! 🌱🌸

Top 10 Questions and Answers About Growing Hollyhocks

1. Can I grow hollyhocks in pots?
   Yes, dwarf varieties like ‘Queeny Purple’ or ‘Majorette Mix’ are suitable for containers.
2. How long do hollyhock seeds take to germinate?
   Hollyhock seeds typically germinate within 10–14 days under the right conditions.
3. Do hollyhocks need full sun?
   Yes, hollyhocks thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
4. How often should I water hollyhocks?
   Water regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells.
5. Do hollyhocks bloom in their first year?
   Hollyhocks are typically biennials, blooming in their second year, but some varieties like ‘Queeny Purple’ can flower in their first year if started early.
6. What soil is best for hollyhocks?
   Rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter is ideal for hollyhocks.
7. Do hollyhocks need staking?
   Yes, tall hollyhocks often require staking to support their height.
8. How do I prevent rust on hollyhocks?
   Ensure good airflow, avoid wetting leaves when watering, and remove any infected foliage promptly.
9. Are hollyhocks annuals or perennials?
   Hollyhocks are usually biennials but can act as short-lived perennials or reseed themselves.
10. Do hollyhocks attract pollinators?
    Yes, hollyhocks are excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.