EasyBloom Forum

Hi! I am hoping to sow hollyhock seeds soon. I know this is the time of year when they self-sow anyway and was hoping they could establish a root system before it gets cold, does that sound correct? Also, the place I would like to plant them is classed as "partial shade" by my easybloom, and the area gets 6 hours of direct sunlight, 3 of those hours being "strong." I live in zone 7a, and it will be warm and humid here through early fall. Thanks for any help!

Hey Jamie...Not only is this the time of year that Hollyhocks self-sow, but it is also the time of year that we gardeners should also sow seed. This is only for the species that are biennial and perennial though. Some species of Hollyhock are annual, but they definitely are not as prominent as the perennials. I would be surprised if you were not sowing seed from Alcea rosea, which is easily the most popular species and is also a perennial. Your zone is perfectly fine for this species too. The heat and humidity should not hinder the plants' growth in any way either. In fact the warmth will help establish the plant quicker than if it were cold. This will give the plants a better chance to establish before winter arrives. Hollyhocks are definitely full sun plants. I looked at what your EasyBloom said. You are fairly close to a full sun condition. I would suggest that your Hollyhock would probably survive, but it would not thrive as it would in a full sun position. I hope this information is helpful. Let me know if you have any more questions. Happy Planting!!! --Robby

Thank you so much! I'm going to trim the trees and shrubs around my planting area to hopefully let a little sun in, and I also have a second spot that gets more sun, so I'll sow in both and see what I get!