How to Take Care of a Lavatera Mallow Plant

Choose a location for the lavatera plant with access to full sun or partial shade conditions and a soil that is well drained and nutrient rich. Plant the seedlings outdoors at a depth of 3 to 4 inches and placed 3 feet apart, or sow seeds on bare ground in the spring.

Work compost into the soil at the time of planting if the nutrient value or moisture retention is poor.

Water lavatera plants regularly after planting to stimulate root growth. Continue to water the plants in summer conditions where the rainfall is less than one inch per week. Lavatera plants tolerate moisture well and are able to withstand the ground drying out prior to watering.

Fertilizing is not needed if compost has been added to the soil at planting. A standard annual flower fertilizer can be applied if the plants are yellowing or not producing flowers.

Place a light layer of mulch around the plants to assist with moisture retention. A heavy layer of mulch will prevent the plant from re-seeding itself. Remove mulch in the fall, before the seeds fall off, to assist with re-seeding.

Remove seeds in the fall if you want to propagate them indoors during the late winter months. Allow the seeds to dry and store them in a dry paper envelope or bag. Do not store them in plastic bags.