Hollyhock 'Indian Spring Mix'

Indian Spring Hollyhock Mix (Alcea rosea)

Indian Spring Hollyhock Mix is a dreamy blend of deeply romantic colours, featuring large, satiny blooms in shades of rose, pink, salmon-pink, and white. These hibiscus-like flowers slowly unfurl to 3–4 inches wide and climb sturdy 5–7 foot stalks, making them a standout feature in cottage gardens and borders. Ideal for the back of beds, these tall beauties are also beloved by bees, which gather and tussle for the golden pollen.

Hollyhocks are easy to grow and drought tolerant once established. They’re biennials or short-lived perennials: they develop leafy rosettes the first year and bloom gloriously the next. After blooming, cutting them back can encourage a second flush, and if allowed to go to seed, they’ll often self-sow for years of delight.

Also known as Common Hollyhock or Cottage Hollyhock.
Note: Colour mix is not guaranteed.

DETAILS:
 
QTY: 20

TYPE: Biennial

SITE: Full Sun - Part Shade

DEPTH: 1/8" 

GERMINATION: 10-14 Days at 15-21°C

HEIGHT: 60 - 84"

MATURITY: 75 - 90 days (Second season)

SPACING: 12"

PINCH: No

HOW TO GROW:

Transplant (recommended): Start seeds indoors in seedling trays 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Sow on the surface of the soil or cover lightly, as some light aids germination. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before transplanting outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.

Direct Sowing (alternative): Direct sowing can be done after the last frost, but germination may be slower and less reliable.

Pinching and Support: Hollyhocks typically do not require pinching. Deadheading spent flowers after the first flush of blooms can encourage reblooming in late summer to fall. Allow some flowers to go to seed in autumn if you want them to self-sow and return the following year. Taller varieties may require staking to prevent their heavy flower stalks from toppling over.

Soil Preference and Watering: Hollyhocks prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal issues.

Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not typically necessary for hollyhocks. A single application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at planting time is usually sufficient.

Harvesting: For bouquets, harvest stems when the flowers at the bottom of the stalk have begun to open.

Other Tips: Hollyhocks will focus on foliage and root development in the first season, with blooms appearing in the second year. They are ideal for borders, pollinator gardens, and cut flower production.