Hollyhock Nigra Seeds

Direct-sow Alcea Rosea Nigra seeds in late spring through midsummer. Press seed onto the soil surface and barely cover it. Don’t bury alcea rosea flower seeds too much, as light helps germination. Sprouts come in 10–14 days at 65–70 °F. Don’t try to start indoors, as seedlings don’t like being transplanted.

Hollyhock Nigra flower requires six hours of direct sun. Less than that and you'll get floppy stalks and rust all summer. Loamy, well-drained ground at a near-neutral pH suits it best; if you plant in heavy clay, work in compost prior. Water deeply at the base once a week through the first season. Don’t water over the leaves plus warm air equals orange rust pustules inside a fortnight, and once it takes hold, you're chasing the disease for the rest of the year.

Mulch Hollyhock Nigra flower in the second spring before the spike rises. Deadhead through July to extend the blooming period, then ease off in August and let the last whorl ripen if you want to save Hollyhock Nigra seeds for next year. Pods turn papery brown when ready; dry them another week on a windowsill, then store in a paper envelope in cool place. For cutting, snip stems when they are half-open. The upper buds will open in the vase, which gives you another four or five days of display.