Hardening off is the process of gradually getting your seedlings acclimated to colder weather, so the outside temperatures don’t come as a shock. You can germinate hollyhock seeds between 55–60 °F (13–16 °C). However, once they’ve sprouted, keep them in an area with daytime temperatures between 65–70 °F (18–21 °C) and nighttime temperatures that don’t drop below 55 °F (13 °C). [5] X Research source It’s safer to transplant seedlings rather than mature hollyhocks, since mature hollyhocks will already have a developed taproot that can get damaged easily. [6] X Research source
Aim to plant your hollyhocks in a south- or west-facing area to get adequate light. [9] X Research source
If the soil doesn’t seem to drain easily, you’ll need to find another transplanting spot or amend the soil with compost and well-rotted manure. [14] X Research source The mineral particles in compost and manure help make soil more porous to improve drainage.
Hollyhocks do best in soil with a pH between 5. 8-6. 0. [17] X Research source
Once you’ve carefully pulled the plant out, brush off any dirt clods with your hands.
If you’re transplanting multiple hollyhocks or planting multiple seedlings, space out the holes 12–18 inches (30–46 cm) apart. [25] X Research source
Allowing water to drain through the soil while you’re backfilling helps reduce air pockets in the soil, and it adds moisture for your hollyhocks.
For seedlings and plants that are only a few months old, water the soil so that the top 6 inches (15 cm) are wet. [29] X Trustworthy Source Royal Horticultural Society Leading gardening charity in the U. K. providing resources for identifying, growing and caring for flowers and other plants Go to source
10-10-10 fertilizer means the fertilizer contains 10% nitrogen, 10% phosphate and 10% potash. [33] X Research source
You won’t need to do deadhead your hollyhocks until the summer months when they bloom.
Prevent rust by watering close as close to the roots as possible so you don’t expose the plants’ leaves and stalks to excess moisture. Remove dead and dying plant material in your garden to encourage airflow, which also helps prevent rust.
Pound the stake into the ground a few inches away from the base of a drooping hollyhock. Then, tie the hollyhock stalk to the stake with padded wire, twine, or plant ties (which you can buy from your local hardware store or plant nursery). [38] X Research source You’ll likely have to stake your hollyhocks if you plant them in a windy location or if the soil doesn’t provide enough nutrients to encourage them to grow straight.
