Hollyhock Seeds,
Majorette Double Champagne

Direct sow Majorette Double Champagne in spring, or sow in containers to transplant out in spring. Plant the seed just ¼ inch deep, since light aids germination, and do not let the seeds dry out while they sprout over 10 to 14 days. Space this dwarf variety 12 to 24 inches apart in full sun to part sun, in moist, rich, well-drained soil; the wider spacing buys the air circulation that keeps rust off the leaves. Flowers follow at 100 to 120 days, and the plants are frost hardy in zones 3–9.

• Seeds germinate in 10 to 14 days.
• Direct sow seeds just 1/8-1/4 inch deep, as light aids germination, but seeds do not like to dry out.

• Plants prefer full sun to part shade.
• They require moist, rich, well-drained soil.
• Space plants about 24 inches apart and provide staking for the tall flower spikes.
• Cut down spent flower spikes to improve the health and longevity of the plant.

PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Hollyhock is a fairly care-free flower, but rust is a common issue. It can be avoided by providing good air circulation to the foliage and watering the base of the plants rather than the leaves.
• The tall plants can be easily blown over in high winds. Position the planting area to protect against strong gales, such as close to the side of a building, or just provide some staking.

• Allow flowerheads to turn brown and dry on plants.
• Clip the heads and dry the seeds, placing them in a brown paper bag for a week in a dark, dry place.
• Store seeds in a cool, dark, dry place over winter.