How to Grow Indian Spring Hollyhocks From Seed

Clear a planting site in full sun with well-draining soil. Find a spot with wind protection, such as near a fence or wall, or you may have to stake the Indian Spring hollyhocks.

Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic matter, such as compost, peat moss or aged manure, to enrich the soil because hollyhocks will return for several seasons. Mix this at least 6 inches into the soil and then rake the area level.

Sow one Indian Spring hollyhock seed, ¼-inch deep every 18 to 24 inches. Dampen the planting area to moisten the seeds.

Water the area regularly, starting early in spring, as needed to maintain moist soil until seedlings emerge in two to three weeks. Continue to supply water to the hollyhocks whenever rainfall is less than 1 inch weekly throughout the growing season. These plants grow best in moist soil, except during the winter.

Cover the area around the hollyhocks with 2 to 4 inches of mulch to prevent weeds, hold moisture and for winter protection in cold regions. Replenish the mulch each spring as needed to maintain the same depth.

Feed the Indian Spring hollyhocks monthly with a general-purpose fertilizer from spring to fall. Apply the fertilizer as directed on the label and then water well.

Cut the Indian Spring hollyhocks back to the ground after the growing season. Hollyhocks are self-seeding and will continue to reappear each spring.