Hollyhocks

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Hollyhocks certainly add old country charm to any garden! 

Hollyhocks are easily grown from seed. Varieties with red flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies Depending on location Hollyhocks are grown as annuals, perennials or biennial – although technically considered biennials. Hollyhocks come in many rich and delicate colors, from the deepest crimsons and maroons, to blush pinks, whites and pale yellows, single and double blooms generally growing from 6 – 12 ft tall. Hollyhocks are said to be deer resistant.

Hollyhock Rust
Hollyhocks are infamous for being plagued by a fungal disease called rust, caused by a specific fungus. This fungal disease’s preferred host plants all belong to the Malvaecae family. The key to preventing rust (and any fungal disease) is to keep the foliage of your plants as dry as possible, rust spores need a wet leaf surface in order to germinate. Increase air circulation by spacing all plants – giving them at least 2ft in each direction. Water at the base of the plants — being very careful not to spray the leaves. If your plants do become infected, good garden sanitation practices are the best remedy. Remove affected leaves immediately and burn or dispose of them in the garbage. Don’t place diseased plants in your compost pile. In the fall, cut back the stalks of healthy plants and remove as much dead plant matter as possible from the plant, because the rust spores overwinter on stems and leaves.
Spray an Organic and/or Natural Fungicide to the foliage if the problem persists.

Hollyhocks were often planted next to outhouses long ago.
Why, you ask?
So that in the event visitors came calling, a lady need not announce in front of everyone her need to use the privy. (Toilet) As the hollyhocks were next to the outhouse, one merely asked where the hollyhocks were, and when pointed in the direction, did not need to reveal if she were going to admire the hollyhocks or do something else while there. Ah, such a lady-like gesture! So if you have an outhouse, be sure to plant a few next to it even just for fun.

Add Hollyhocks to your garden this season!