Hello, gardener. We are hollyhocks, the towering sentinels of the cottage garden. While we are strong and resilient, our height makes us susceptible to the whims of the wind. Growing us against a wall or fence is an excellent strategy, as it provides the support we crave and creates a stunning vertical display. From our perspective, here is how you can help us thrive in such a location.
First, you must understand our needs for light and space. We are sun-worshippers, requiring a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to grow strong and produce our best blooms. A south or west-facing wall is ideal. Please ensure there is at least 18-24 inches of space between the wall and where you plant us; this allows for crucial air circulation around our stems and leaves, which helps prevent diseases like rust. The soil should be well-draining yet rich. Amending the native soil with compost will make us very happy and give us a strong start.
Whether you start us from seed or transplant a young plant, our initial placement is key. Plant us about 12-18 inches away from the base of the wall or fence. This distance is important for two reasons: it gives our roots room to spread away from the rain-shadow of the wall, and it allows air to flow behind our foliage. Immediately after planting, insert a thin, tall bamboo cane into the soil, angling it towards the wall. Gently tie our main stem to this cane with soft plant ties. This initial stake will guide us upward and train us to grow straight towards the larger support system.
As we grow taller, a single cane will not be enough. You have several options that work with our growth habit. One effective method is to attach horizontal wires or a trellis panel to the wall itself, about an inch away from the surface to allow for air flow. You can then tie our stems to these supports at regular intervals. Alternatively, you can create a freestanding support in front of us using stakes and horizontal string lines. The goal is to provide something sturdy we can lean against and be secured to. We will naturally grow towards the sun, and these supports will prevent us from toppling over in a summer storm.
Your care does not end with providing support. Consistent moisture, especially when we are young and during dry spells, is vital for our deep root systems. A layer of mulch around our base will help retain that moisture and keep our roots cool. To encourage continuous blooming, you can deadhead the spent flowers. However, if you wish for us to self-seed for next year's display, leave the last few blooms of the season to develop seed pods. Keep an eye on our leaves for signs of rust; good air circulation from being properly spaced and supported is your best defense against this common ailment.
