How to Plant Hollyhock

Overview

Hollyhocks are native to China, but they make a splash in gardens all over the US with their tall flowering stalks. Most varieties of hollyhock are hardy through USDA zones 3 to 8, so they can handle varying degrees of weather. Hollyhocks are true biennials, meaning they grow only for 2 years before they die. However, hollyhocks can be planted as annuals and some can even survive as perennials for a short time.

Step 1

Choose a spot in your yard for the hollyhocks. Hollyhocks like full sun and well-drained soil, although they can handle many soil types as long as they are moist.

Step 2

Plant hollyhocks in the spring after the last frost. The seedlings need not be very tall, only a few inches, when you set them out.

Step 3

Dig holes for the hollyhocks. Make sure the holes are as deep as the container the hollyhocks are growing in and twice as wide. Space each hole 4 to 5 inches apart.

Step 4

Place the hollyhocks in the holes. Fill the holes with soil and pat it down firmly.

Step 5

Water the hollyhocks for 3 to 5 minutes.