Chater's Double Mix Alcea Plant

Chater's Double Mix Hollyhock features large 4-6-inch flowers that open from the bottom of the flower stem to the top. The tall, sturdy plants are well suited for the back of the border. Cut stalks back hard after blooming for a summer/fall rebloom. Each plant will bloom in one of these colors: white, scarlet, apricot, bright yellow, pink or a golden yellow. Well-drained soil is a must, especially in winter, for plants to thrive! This biennial readily self-seeds. Hollyhocks grow well in full sun locations. Plants tolerate a range of soil conditions and some light shade but will not tolerate wet soils. Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies while keeping away the rabbits and deer. Tolerates black walnut trees.

Our Alcea Plants are grown with great care, free from harmful pesticides, making them safe for your garden and the environment. Guaranteed to arrive alive and thriving!

Planting Instructions:

• - Can be planted spring, summer, or fall

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.0

Watering Specifics:

• - Water deeply and regularly during the establishment period
• - Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings once established

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
• - Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers

Pruning and Training:

• - Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering
• - Cut back stems to the base in late fall after flowering has finished
• - Consider staking tall plants to prevent them from toppling in windy conditions

Additional Pest Management:

• - Monitor for common pests like Japanese beetles and aphids
• - Keep an eye out for rust, a common fungal issue with hollyhocks; remove affected leaves and provide good air circulation

Blooming Indicators:

• - Blooms from mid-summer to early fall

Light Requirements:

• - Can tolerate light shade, especially in hot climates, but flowering may be reduced

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Tolerates heat and humidity; prefers cooler nights

Companion Plants for Alcea:

• - Delphinium: Their tall, spiky blooms create a stunning vertical contrast with Alcea
• - Lupine: Adds additional height and a variety of colors to the garden
• - Foxglove: Complements Alcea's stature and attracts pollinators
• - Echinacea: Their daisy-like flowers provide a textural contrast with Alcea’s larger blooms
• - Campanula: Adds a delicate touch with its bell-shaped flowers