About Hollyhock Mix
Hollyhock Mix (Alcea rosea) is a classic, charming addition to the traditional cottage or English garden, featuring tall stems covered in vibrant single blooms that appear in a delightful range of colours. Blooming steadily from early summer to early autumn, hollyhocks reach heights up to 2m, providing striking vertical interest. This short-lived perennial (lasting 2-4 years) readily self-seeds, ensuring an ongoing, naturalized presence in your garden. Drought-tolerant and hardy, hollyhocks attract pollinators, making them both beautiful and beneficial.

Where Can You Grow Hollyhock Mix?
Hollyhocks grow well in Zones 3-9, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Excellent for borders, cottage gardens, and fence lines.

History and Historical Uses
Hollyhocks have been a garden favourite since medieval times, particularly prized in traditional English gardens for their beauty and resilience. Historically used both ornamentally and medicinally, hollyhocks have been cultivated for centuries and remain beloved for their ease of growth and nostalgic charm.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Direct sow in autumn or early spring for blooms the following summer.
Zones 5-7: Start indoors in late winter or sow directly outdoors after last frost.
Zones 3-4: Start seeds indoors in early spring; transplant outside after frost danger has passed.

How to Grow and Harvest Hollyhock Mix

• Planting: Sow seeds 6mm (¼in) deep; space seedlings 30-60cm (1-2ft) apart.
• Watering: Keep evenly moist until established; drought-tolerant thereafter.
• Maintenance: Provide stakes or plant near fences for support against wind. Remove spent blooms to encourage prolonged flowering, or leave to self-seed.
• Harvesting: Cut flower stalks for bouquets once blooms are fully open.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

• Allow Pods to Mature: Leave some flower stalks on plants to form seed pods.
• Harvest Seeds: Collect seeds when pods turn dry and brown.
• Clean and Dry: Remove seeds from pods and allow to dry completely.
• Store: Store dried seeds in airtight containers in a cool, dark place; viable for up to 3-5 years.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)