“Why does it look like a hibiscus,” said an admirer of the tropical-looking bloom. But when she had observed it more closely, she said, “But it’s only an old hollyhock.” That’s the reaction many of us have to this familiar flower.
Nimble-fingered people use the beautiful florets for very “dressy” corsages. Flower arrangers float them in low bowls to resemble glamourous water lilies. And many a gardener has looked up at the tall spikes outdoors and thought their blooms remarkably exotic for such simple plants.
Medal Winner Indian Spring
Indian Spring, the All-America Selections silver medal winner of 1943, deserves better placement than in the alleys and odd corners where older kinds often waste their charms.
This single or semi-double variety in clear shades of pink can be started indoors in March for flowers in August, so it is often listed as an annual
The double perennial varieties, too, are chosen for prominent placement in borders and along fences. The fluffy blossoms, the wide range of colors, and the compact growth recommend them over single varieties.
Hollyhocks
Still, hollyhocks are old-fashioned and familiar and probably at their best in cottagey settings. They grow well in any sunny, well-drained spot. Seeds sprout readily.
Sown in March, even the perennial kinds will bloom sometime in August the first year, but experts say hollyhocks that started in June and left to grow a year before flowering are healthier.
Seedlings are easy to move when small. Big plants will survive even if only a piece of the long taproot is dug up intact, provided it has a good batch of fibrous roots.
Experts Warning
The experts warn about the dangers of frost heaving and soil erosion around the roots, so the crowns undoubtedly need protection in a few places.
Rust is another threat and an ugly one. Powdered sulfur controls it. Plenty of sun on the leaves and good spacing will help.
44659 by Patricia Spollen