Hollyhock 'Summer Carnival Double Mix' - "Alcea rosea"

Hollyhock 'Summer Carnival Double Mix' (Alcea rosea) is a stunning, tall biennial or short-lived perennial producing large, fully double flowers in shades of pink, red, yellow, white, and purple. These eye-catching blooms grow along tall spires, making them perfect for cottage gardens, back borders, and cut flower arrangements. Hollyhocks attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making them excellent for pollinator-friendly gardens.

Growing Conditions

Plant Size:

• Height: 150—200 cm
• Width: 45—60 cm

Climate:

• Thrives in mild to warm climates with cool winters.
• Best suited for Western Cape, Gauteng, and Free State.
• Tolerates light frost but struggles in extreme humidity.

Soil Requirements:

• Prefers rich, well-draining soil with moderate moisture.
• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0—7.5).
• Improve soil with organic compost and well-rotted manure before planting.

Sunlight Needs:

• Requires full sun (minimum 6—8 hours of direct sunlight daily).

Planting Instructions

Best Planting Time:

• Autumn (March—May) or early spring (August—September) for best growth.

Sowing Seeds:

• Direct Sowing: Best method — sow seeds 1 cm deep in prepared soil.
• Seed Trays: Start indoors, then transplant seedlings once they reach 10—15 cm in height.
• Spacing: 45—60 cm apart to allow proper air circulation.
• Germination Time: 10—20 days at 18—22°C.

Staking:

• Tall stems may need staking to prevent bending in strong winds.

Watering & Fertilization

Watering:

• Water deeply 2—3 times per week, keeping soil evenly moist.
• Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

Fertilization:

• At Planting: Mix in organic compost and a balanced 5:10:10 fertilizer.
• During Growth: Apply a liquid fertilizer every 3—4 weeks to boost flowering.

Mulching:

• A thin layer of mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pest & Disease Management

Common Pests:

• Aphids & Spider Mites — Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
• Caterpillars & Japanese Beetles — Handpick pests or use organic insecticides.

Common Diseases:

• Rust & Powdery Mildew — Improve airflow, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides if needed.
• Root Rot — Prevent by ensuring well-draining soil.

Flowering & Maintenance

Bloom Time:

• Spring to early summer, with some re-blooming in autumn.

Deadheading & Pruning:

• Remove spent flowers to extend bloom time.
• Cut back stems after flowering to promote regrowth.

Fragrance:

• Lightly scented flowers that attract pollinators.

Garden Uses & Companion Planting

Companion Plants:

• Complements foxgloves, delphiniums, roses, and daisies.
• Plant near marigolds and lavender to deter pests.

Best Uses:

• Cottage gardens, back borders, trellises, and cut flower gardens.

Why Grow Hollyhock 'Summer Carnival Double Mix'?

• Spectacular floral display with vibrant, double blooms.
• Attracts pollinators to enhance biodiversity in your garden.
• Easy to grow with minimal maintenance.

Order your Hollyhock 'Summer Carnival Double Mix' seeds today and enjoy a magnificent, towering floral show in your garden!