Can you grow hollyhocks in pots? Hollyhocks are a timeless classic in the world of gardening. We’ll show you how to successfully grow hollyhocks in pots. and create stunning blooms that will brighten up your outdoor space.
Hollyhocks are one of the most iconic cottage garden flowers. Their tall, stately spires covered in colorful blooms are a beloved sight in many gardens. But did you know you can also successfully grow these beauties in pots?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about growing hollyhocks in containers From choosing the right variety and pot, proper care and maintenance, to overwintering techniques
Hollyhocks with their scientific name of Alcea rosea are biennial or short-lived perennial plants that originated in Asia and Europe. They can grow quite tall, usually reaching heights of 5-8 feet.
The flowers bloom on long spikes from mid-summer to early fall. They come in a wide range of colors like pink, red, yellow, white, purple, and even black. Hollyhocks work wonderfully as a backdrop or border plant in cottage gardens. Their blooms also attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees.
While hollyhocks are easy to grow in the ground, can you successfully grow them in pots? The answer is yes! With the right care and conditions, container-grown hollyhocks can thrive and put on a stunning floral display.
Choosing the Right Container and Variety
When selecting a pot for hollyhocks, bigger is always better. Their long taproots and towering heights require ample space. Go with at least a 12-inch wide, 18-inch deep container. Rectangular planters work well to accommodate multiple plants.
Make sure your container has drainage holes at the bottom. Clay and plastic pots are suitable materials. For varieties, look for compact, bushy cultivars that won’t grow beyond your pot’s limits. Some container-friendly options include ‘Queeny Purple’, ‘Peaches ‘n Dreams’, and ‘Chater’s Double Mix’.
Getting the Soil Right
Proper soil is crucial for successfully growing any plant, and container-grown hollyhocks are no exception. Use a high-quality potting mix that drains well but also retains some moisture. You can make your own by combining peat moss, compost, perlite, and vermiculite.
Test your soil’s pH, as hollyhocks prefer a slightly alkaline pH between 6.0-8.0. Before planting, work in some balanced organic fertilizer to provide nutrients. Slow-release pellets are a great option for long-term feeding.
Planting and Positioning the Pots
If starting hollyhocks from seed, sow them indoors 8-10 weeks before your last expected frost. Transplant the seedlings into pots once they develop 2-4 true leaves. You can also purchase young potted plants from nurseries.
Space plants at least 12 inches apart in their containers. Bury roots just deep enough so the crown is level with the soil surface. Place pots in full sun where they’ll get 6-8 hours of light daily. Provide a trellis or sturdy stake for support once they grow taller.
Watering Needs and Fertilizing Schedule
Check soil moisture frequently, watering when the top inch becomes dry. Hollyhocks are naturally heavy drinkers, so don’t let pots dry out completely. Increase watering during hot, dry spells. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season for continual feeding.
Taper off fertilizing by early fall so plants can harden off for winter. Always water deeply the day before fertilizing to prevent root burn. Drench pots thoroughly until water drains from the bottom.
Preventing Pests and Diseases
A common disease is rust fungus, which causes yellow-orange spots on leaves. Improve airflow between plants and avoid wetting foliage to prevent its spread. Other pests like spider mites, aphids, and Japanese beetles may appear.
Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap sprays as soon as insects are spotted. Remove and destroy any severely damaged leaves or stems. Fertilizing and watering properly will strengthen plants against diseases.
Caring for Hollyhocks Over Winter
Hollyhocks are technically perennial in zones 3-9 but will thrive longer when overwintered indoors. Before the first frost, move potted plants to an unheated garage or cellar. Water sparingly, just 1-2 times per month while dormant.
Cut back any dead growth in late winter. Discard any shriveled leaves or stems collected around the base. Repot in early spring with fresh soil and move back outside once all danger of frost has passed.
Troubleshooting Common Hollyhock Problems
Leaves turning yellow or wilting: This usually signals overwatering. Allow soil to dry out before watering again.
Flowers drooping: Drooping flowers occur if plants don’t receive sufficient water. Deeply soak pots when top inch of soil is dry.
Few or no flowers: Hollyhocks are biennial, blooming the second year after planting. Pinch off first year flowers to promote root growth. Insufficient sunlight also causes poor flowering.
Stems falling over: Add stakes for support once they grow taller. Tie stems loosely to prevent breakage from wind.
Holes in leaves or stunted growth: Indications of slug or insect damage. Remove pests, spray leaves with neem oil.
White powdery substance on leaves: Powdery mildew fungus. Improve air circulation and avoid wetting foliage. Remove and destroy affected leaves promptly.
Final Tips for Success
- Give plants plenty of space for air circulation to prevent fungal disease.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.
- Pinch off the first year flowers to direct energy towards root development.
- Avoid soggy soil by using containers with bottom drainage and potting mix amended with perlite or gravel.
With the right variety, pot, location, and care, your container-grown hollyhocks will thrive and put on a gorgeous display of color in any garden. Follow these tips and enjoy their stately beauty for years to come!
Fertilizing Hollyhocks in Pots
Hollyhocks require regular fertilization to promote strong growth and abundant blooms. They will become weak and susceptible to diseases or pests without proper feeding. The pot size, soil quality and weather conditions will affect the amount and frequency of fertilizer application. You should feed hollyhocks every 6-8 weeks during the growing season.
Watering Hollyhocks at Planting
Water them thoroughly after planting hollyhocks in pots. This helps to settle the soil and remove any air pockets around the roots. Be careful not to overwater. This can lead to root rot and other issues.
HOW to PLANT and GROW HOLLYHOCKS plus TIPS for growing hollyhocks in HOT CLIMATES
FAQ
Do hollyhocks grow well in containers?
The essential thing to know with hollyhocks grown in containers is that they need plenty of room. Hollyhocks have long taproots as well as lateral roots that need space, so the deeper the pot, the better. Containers with a barrel-like shape work best. Young hollyhock plants can be planted into containers over summer.
Do hollyhocks like sun or shade?
Hollyhocks thrive in full sun, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. While they can tolerate partial shade, they are more likely to produce taller, more vibrant blooms and stronger stems in full sun.
Will hollyhocks come back every year?
Hollyhocks are typically biennials, meaning they complete their life cycle in two years. However, they often appear to return year after year because they readily self-seed.