Beginner

jade

aka crassula ovata

Jade plants are native to South Africa and are classified as a succulent. Jade plants have oval shaped, fleshy leaves and stems that look like tiny tree trunks.

variations

there are a variation of jade plants available that range from the common green-leaf to more rare variegated varieties. Variegated jade plants can include the tricolour, ET’s Finger or the Hummel’s Sunset variety.

light

bright, indirect.

Jade plants, especially young plants, should get about 6 – 8 hours of light a day.

water + feeding

somewhat thirsty

In spring and summer your jade plant should be watered consistently so that its soil is moist, but not super wet.

toxic

Yes

Jade is toxic to pets.

location

Adaptable

These beautiful plants do well in most indoor settings, but prefer to be close to bright, indirect light. Jade does their best growing in room temperature 18° to 24°C (65° to 75°F).

humidity

a little finnicky

Overwatering and standing water are the most common mistakes made with jade plants. Be sure to monitor your jade for signs of too much moisture.

size

it depends

Jade plants can grow up to 5 ft tall but can stay small if they are rootbound in a small pot.

pro tip

rare flowers

Jade plants don’t regularly flower when grown indoors. To get your jade plant to flower keep it rootbound and in a small pot. Cut back slightly on watering, and you may see a bloom come through.

fun fact

bringers of good luck

Jade is often given as a housewarming gift because it’s thought to bring good luck.

beyond the basics

  • soil + potting

    Succulents thrive in porous, well draining potting mix. These usually have less organic matter than regular indoor potting mix. A mix like Miracle-Gro® Cactus, Palm & Succulent Potting Mix is well-draining and won’t compact. Don’t forget to feed your plants consistently during the feeding season.

  • when to repot

    Repotting a young jade plant every 2 – 3 years will encourage growth. If you want to keep your jade plant small, they enjoy being slightly rootbound and can stay in a small pot to maintain a manageable size. Always repot in the spring.

  • propagation

    Propagating a jade plant is super easy! You can start a whole new jade from just a single leaf or cutting. Remove a leaf or stem cutting from a healthy, mature plant, making sure it’s about 2-3 inches long and has at least 2 leaf pairs. Let the cutting sit in a warm, bright place for several days to develop a little callous. Place the cutting in moist, well-draining soil, keeping it propped upright with rocks. Be sure not to water your jade cutting at this point. After a week or two roots should start to form. Gently water the soil once roots have formed, and allow soil to dry between watering.

  • pest control

    Jade is prone to mealybugs and scale. Mealybugs may hide under the leaves of your plant. During your routine leaf cleaning, inspect the underside. Most pests can be managed by using an insecticidal soap such as Ortho® Bug B Gon® ECO Insecticidal Soap. For more tips, check out our Pest control section in Plant 101 for how to identify and deal with pests on your plant!

troubleshooting

have an idea?
Beginner

string of hearts

aka ceropegia woodii

this beautiful trailing succulent is native to South Africa, Swaziland and Zimbabwe. This plant is named for the sweet, heart-shaped leaves.

variations

the more sun it gets, the more variegated the leaves will get. Leaves can get silver, cream or even pink markings.

light

bright, indirect.

Ample bright, indirect light will lead to greater variegation in the leaves.

water + feeding

somewhat thirsty

Can be watered 1-2 times a week in the spring and summer, once every week or two during the fall and winter.

toxic

no

This plant is safe for pets.

location

somewhere bright

Place near your brightest window. South or West facing windows is recommended

humidity

not too fussy

Can tolerate drier climate but thrive in about 40-50% humidity.

size

small-ish

Can grow up to 3 inches tall and have trailing stems that can grow to 3 – 9 ft long.

pro tip

sun baths

Colour can be revived by placing your plant by a bright window. Leaves can return to their vibrant colours and even turn pink.

fun fact

fast Growers

They’re fast growers and very easy to care for, making them popular houseplants for beginners.

beyond the basics

  • soil + potting

    String of heart plants are a member of the succulent family, so they need a porous, well-draining potting mix that doesn’t retain a lot of moisture because these beauties are prone to root rot. It’s recommended to use a succulent specific potting mix, like Miracle-Gro® Cactus, Palm & Succulent Potting Mix.

  • when to repot

    String of hearts tend to be okay with staying slightly rootbound, so you don’t need to keep a strict schedule when repotting. A good rule of thumb is to repot about every 1 – 2 years. Use a pot that is a few inches bigger than its current pot and has a drainage hole.

  • propagation

    Start by trimming your string of hearts just under a nodule. Place your cutting in moist soil and watch your new plant take root. This process will likely take about a month. Make sure the soil is kept moist during this growing period.

  • pest control

    String of hearts are prone to root rot, so make sure your plant’s soil is drying out between watering. Other pests like aphids or mealybugs can be managed by using an insecticidal soap such as Ortho® Bug B Gon® ECO Insecticidal Soap.

troubleshooting

  • why are there big gaps between my leaves?

    Not enough light. Move your string of hearts to a place where it can sit in ample indirect, bright light.

  • why are my leaves turning mushy and droopy?

    Overwatering or root rot. Root rot is caused by overwatering. The easiest way to tell if it’s root rot or just overwatering is to give it a sniff. If your plant smells bad, it’s root rot. If it smells okay, just hold off on watering it for a little the soil dries out a bit.

  • why are my leaves turning brown?

    Sunburn. It looks like your string of hearts is getting too much sun. These plants enjoy bright, but indirect light. Move your plant away from direct sunlight, but keep in a nice, bright room.

  • why are my plant’s leaves curling?

    Underwatering. Thinning or curling leaves is a clear indicator of underwatering. Give your string of hearts a good soak and your plant should be happily re-hydrated.

have an idea?
Beginner

money tree

aka pachira aquatica

Money Trees originated from Central and South America. The braided trunk of the tree isn’t naturally occurring. This feature is created by cultivators braiding young trees manually.

variations

Variations include Malabar Chestnut, Provision Tree, Guiana Chestnut and French Peanut.

light

avoid direct sunlight

Too much direct sunlight will cause the leaves to curl, yellow or burn.

water + feeding

water when dry

However, these plants can still do well without watering too frequently.

toxic

safe for humans and pets

Money Trees are even recommended for people with allergies or asthma.

location

adaptable

Although it’s recommended not to keep this plant in your bathroom because it’s believed this will “flush” good vibes away.

humidity

love it!

Money Trees appreciate a humid climate, with about 50% humidity.

size

small to medium

At home, your money tree could grow between 3 to 5 feet. In the wild, these trees can grow up to 60 feet tall.

pro tip

get a humidifier

Prevent yellowing and dying leaves by increasing the humidity in the plant’s environment.

fun fact

popular in feng shui

This plant usually sprouts 5 leaves on a stem, and 5 is a very important number in Feng Shui.

beyond the basics

  • soil + potting

    Money Trees need a sandy, peat-moss based soil. Consider adding Miracle-Gro® Sphagnum Peat Moss to your plant’s soil. Don’t forget to use a pot with drainage!

  • when to repot

    Money Trees usually need to be repotted every three years. The best time to repot is during the spring time, to promote growth. While you can cut back on some root growth, be sure not to take off more than 25% of the roots.

  • propagation

    The best way to propagate your Money Tree is through a cutting. Take your 6 inch branch cutting, with several leaf nodes, and allow to root in water. Promptly transfer to a soil mixture with peat moss.

  • pest control

    Money Trees are very attractive to aphids and mealybugs. You can use a gentle insecticide like Ortho® Bug B Gon® ECO Insecticide Ready-to-use to prevent these creepy crawlies from returning.

troubleshooting

  • why are my plant’s leaves drooping or turning yellow?

    Watering issues. If your Money Tree’s leaves are drooping it could be as simple as inconsistent watering. Keep a schedule and check the soil’s moisture level to understand its needs. If the leaves are yellowing, it’s likely due to overwatering. It’s time to water when the top 2 to 4 inches of soil are dry.

  • why is my plant’s trunk spongey and soft?

    Sounds like root rot. This happens when a fungus has attacked your plant’s roots and is a sign that you’ve been overwatering. Root rot can be fatal if it’s not caught early. The best chance you can give your Money Tree for survival is to repot immediately, removing as much old soil as possible.

  • what is this gross, sticky sap?

    Guttation. This it totally normal! If the rest of your Money Tree looks healthy, there’s nothing to worry about. But… if you see little dark bumps on your plant, it could be a pest infestation.

  • why are my plant’s leaves curling?

    Overwatering. Avoid excessive watering and finger test your plant’s soil when you’re about to water. Make sure you’re only watering when the first 2 to 4 inches of soil are dry.

  • why are my plant’s leaves falling?

    Too much sunlight. Too much bright, direct sunlight can cause your Money Tree to drop leaves. Another common cause is if your Money Tree has recently moved to its new home. Dropping a few leaves as your plant adjusts to its new home is totally normal.

have an idea?
Beginner

sunflowers

aka helianthus anuus l.

Sunflowers are an annual plant with a big, daisy-like flower head. These flowers are heliotropic, meaning they turn their heads to follow the sun across the sky.

variations

There are many variations of sunflowers, but most commonly there are sunflowers with branching stems or single stems. You can also choose from sunflowers that produce pollen, pollen-free or ones that produce edible seeds.

light

full sun

Sunflowers need full sun for optimal growth, about 6 hours of sunlight daily.

water + feeding

not too thirsty

Once established, sunflowers don’t need frequent watering. But they do need deep watering. Overfertilizing can cause stems to break as well. Dillute any fertilizer and avoid the sunflower’s base.

toxic

non-toxic

Sunflowers are safe for humans and animals.

size

medium to large

The smaller, indoor grown varieties grow to about a foot tall. The bigger, outdoor varieties can grow up to 16 feet tall.

pro tip

stationary beauties

Sunflowers don’t like having their roots disrupted. It’s best to plant them in the spots that they’re intended to stay.

fun fact

herb or flower?

Sunflowers are kind of both. They’re listed as a herb in Encyclopedia Britannica, but also have big flowering heads.

beyond the basics

  • soil + potting

    Sunflowers are not sensitive to the pH level of soil. Use an well-draining soil like Miracle Gro® All Purpose Garden Soil and introduce a water soluble fertilizer about halfway through the summer.

  • companion planting

    Sunflowers pair well with many other plants. Consider pairing with shade-loving plants. Sunflowers can cast some shade on veggies like cucumbers or lettuce. Due to their flexible soil needs, they can be planted alongside plants like bush bean varieties, like lima beans or green beans.

  • blooms

    To encourage side blooms, cut indoor varieties on the main stem just before the flower bud has a chance to open. Cut stems in the early morning vs the afternoon to avoid flower wilting. For cut sunflower bouquets, ensure their container provides enough support for their heads. Change the water daily to keep them fresh.

  • pest control

    Birds and squirrels love to scavenge sunflower seeds. Consider covering the head of the plant with garden fleece or protect them with a tall, wire barrier.

troubleshooting

  • what are these tiny worms?

    They’re probably gray moths. Sunflowers are pretty much pest-free. If you see tiny worms in the head of the sunflower, it’s likely they’re gray moths. Just pick them off the plant.

  • why are my sunflowers losing leave?

    Could be grasshoppers and caterpillars. These little guys enjoy snacking on the leaves of sunflowers. This doesn’t usually damage the plant, but if there are a lot of these pests, they can defoliate your sunflower quickly.

  • what do spotty leaves mean?

    Could be rust, verticillium wilt or mildew. The damaged leaves will fall off as the disease progresses. Control fungi through proper removal and disposal of infected plants and with a general fungicide.

  • why are my sunflower’s leaves wilting?

    Probably white mold. This is a fungus that causes wilting leaves, stem cankers and root rot. Crop rotation can usually prevent this from happening, as well as maintaining proper watering practices.

have an idea?

Building your indoor jungle can mean that a lot of your flat surfaces are taken up by your plant babies. This can mean only one thing: it’s time to take to the skies! Help your plants thrive by giving them unfettered access to sunlight, without having to compete with other plants on your shelves. We’ve got a macrame plant hanger that’s perfect for your space!

Easy and quick to work up, these hangers can be customized to suit your home’s style.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

  • Natural macrame cord (3mm or 4mm is great to start with)
  • A metal ring (any size)
  • Your potted plant
  • Scissors
  • Measuring tape

step 1. cut the cord

Start by cutting 8 very long pieces of macrame cord, about 10 ft long for a larger planter. Loop the cord through the hoop, so that the cord is folded at the half-way point. You should now have 16 pieces of cord hanging from the loop.

step 2. use a wrapped knot.

A wrapped knot is pretty easy to do and gives you a polished effect. Here’s how to do a wrapped knot:

  1. Cut a short piece of cord over the looped cord. Make sure the short tail is to the left, a loop pointing down and the long tail to your right.
  2. Wrap the long tail over the looped cords and the loop of the short cord.
  3. Continue wrapping the long tail. Make sure to keep it tight and leave the bottom loop of the short cord uncovered.
  4. Once you’ve wrapped to your desired length, thread the long tail through the bottom loop.
  5. Pull up on the short tail to tighten the knot. Then pull it under the wraps.
  6. Cut the tail as close to the knot as you can.

step 3. prep your first row of knots.

Start by dividing the 16 long pieces of cord into 4 groups of four strands. To make sure they’re evenly spaced around the pot, use a measuring tape to measure the same distance from the wrapped knot, and mark each of the 4 groups of cord. Start with about 20 inches down from the knot, then adjust to your preferences. Keep the 16 cords into 4 groups of 4.

step 4. start tying your knots.

This is your first row of square knots. Here’s how to start your first row fos each group of 4 cords.

  1. Take the left cord and lay it over the centre strands, and under the outside cord on the right.
  2. Thread the right strand under the center cords, and over the strand on the left. Pull to tighten, and lining it up with the measuring mark we made in the previous step.
  3. Repeat the process, going in the opposite direction. Lay the right cord over the centre ones and under the far left. Thread the left cord under the centre strands and over the cord on the right.
  4. Pull tight. Your first square knot is complete. Proceed in the same way with the other 3 groups of 4 cords.

step 5. measure your second row of knots.

Now it’s time to form the second row of knots. Again, group the cords in 4 groups of 4. This time, take two cords from each adjacent grouping of the previous 4 cords. One centre cord and the right from one and one centre cord and the left from the other. Measure out how far below the first row you’d like these knots to sit. Start with 5 inches below and then adjust to your preference.

step 6. start tying your second row.

Tie two square knots to the length you measured and marked. It should start to look like a tube. You’ll have to turn your project to finish the last row of knots.

step 7. knot and trim.

To finish off, grab all cord lengths and measure how far below the previous set of knots you’d like this final one to sit. This is the base that your plant will rest on. Start with 7 inches below the previous row, then adjust to your preference. Loop the cords together and pull through to secure the knots. Trim the ends so it’s all even.

step 8. add your plant and hang.

Add your plant pal and choose the perfect spot for your planter. Make sure your planter is securely attached to the ceiling before hanging it up. Enjoy!

#easypeasy

a tomaTOTALLY versatile garden essential,

Tomatoes are a must-grow plant, whether your vegetable garden is just getting started or you’re a seasoned pro. No matter what the variety, is there any tomato tastier than a homegrown tomato? Their grocery counterparts simply do not compare. 

Here we show you how to grow a tomato plant from seed, in 7 steps. 

growing tomatoes from seeds

Beefsteak tomatoes are the most popular tomato variety, heart, durable, and tasty. If you are more limited for space, go for smaller varieties, like cherry tomatoes. Add different colours, flavours, and sizes to your garden by including different kinds of tomatoes like yellow and heirloom. Growing your tomatoes from seed allows you to produce greater variance, as opposed to starter tomato plants, which you have less control over.  

lets gro #plantproject

 

 

next step: planting

  1. Using small containers, like egg cartons, plant two tomato seeds in each section with a seed starter mix that fortifies root growth, like Miracle-Gro® Seed Starting Potting Mix.
  2. Add water to the potting mix so it’s spongy but not too wet, then plant your tomato seeds ⅛ inch deep, pressing down slightly.
  3. To conserve moisture, be sure to cover the containers loosely with plastic wrap and put them in a dark, warm spot. Seeds will typically sprout within 1 to 2 weeks.
  4. When they do, move them to a sunny area (or under grow lights). When leaves start to appear, it’s time to transfer them to a larger home, like a 450 mL / 16oz container with holes in the bottom for drainage. 

are we ready to go outside yet?

To avoid your tomato babies facing hard knocks, harden them off!

· Gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions, known as hardening off, will allow them to adapt to the elements.

· Find a spot protected from direct sun and wind gusts, and leave the tomato seedlings outside for a few hours daily. Bring them back indoors in the evening or when temperatures go to 10 C / 50 F or less.

· Do this every day for 10 to 14 days. You may also wish to purchase cold frames or DIY your own plastic sheeting protectors for windier or cooler days outside. 

prepping the ground

You may have protected your tomato babies from hard knocks, but they still should be grounded!

· Once the ground is warm enough, optimally two weeks after the last frost, mix a generous amount of high-quality soil like Miracle-Gro® Organics Garden Mix for Vegetables & Herbs then add 3 inches of mulch, like Scotts® Nature Scapes® Mulch around your tomato plants to keep them moist and weed-free.

· Leave at least 6 inches between the tomato plants and the mulch. 

feed & water your tomatoes now and they will feed you later

· Tomatoes will be hungry for nutrients when they first grow in the soil, so it is important to feed them a specialized plant food like Miracle- Gro® Organics Plant Food Granules for Vegetables & Herbs, and water them daily.

· Once they’re viable after a few weeks, you can feed them every two weeks and of course water regularly.

· Your hands and eyes are vital gardening tools – use a fingertip to test soil moisture closer to the roots, about one inch deep, and keep an eye out for any wilting leaves which will indicate if the plants are amply watered and fed.

sauce, salads it’s time to harvest

Fruit on the vine should appear from 45 to 90 days after planting. You can decide if your tomatoes are ripe by richer colour and firmness. Although there should be a slight softness, a very soft tomato is too ripe and past its best. Now pick them and enjoy! 

healthy tomatoes make happy gardeners

To ensure your tomato plants thrive, water them regularly. Tomatoes love sunshine and therefore soil can dry up quickly, so they need plenty of h2o. Plants can decline rapidly without enough water. You will see a notable response when you feed your tomato babies plant food, so continue to feed at  two-week intervals or more if they seem to do better that way. Prune branches that grow on or near the ground to prevent  disease and remove any fallen tomatoes or buggy or wormed ones. 

#easypeasy

Beginner

hollyhocks

aka Alcea rosea

Hollyhocks can easily be started from seeds indoors, and transplanted outdoors. They add drama, colour and height to your garden. These plants are likely to attract some wildlife to your garden such as hummingbirds and butterflies! Hollyhocks can get a little “leggy” and it’s often suggested to plant dense plants in front of them to hide this. Once planted, Hollyhocks can be difficult to move. It’s suggested to plant them in a spot where you won’t have to move them.

variations

Hollyhock ‘Sunshine’, Hollyhock ‘Peaches ‘n’ Dreams, Hollyhock ‘Creme de Cassis’, Hollyhock ‘Blacknight’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Red’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Apricot’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Lavender’, Hollyhock ‘The Bride’, Hollyhock ‘O Hara’, Hollyhock ‘Banana’

light

varying needs

Full sun to partial shade

water + feeding

not too thirsty

Will tolerate moist conditions if soil is well drained. Water thoroughly during hot, dry weather. Keep water off leaves when watering, to prevent disease problems. The mistake many novice hollyhock growers make is to plant this flower in soil that’s too dry. If you are planting seeds, sow them outside about a week before last frost. If you are planting seedlings out, wait about two to three weeks after last frost. Hollyhock seeds only need to be planted right below the soil, no more than 1/4-inch (.6 cm.) deep

toxic

not really

These flowers are also non-poisonous to dogs or cats, but you need to be careful about the stems and leaves as they may have resin or fiber which may cause some skin allergies.

size

medium-ish

Hollyhock blooms are about four inch double flowers borne on wand-like stems. They have fuzzy leaves, that grow to be about 6-8″ across. A hollyhock plant can grow to be almost 6ft tall!

pro tip

blooms for years

Remove any seed-heads that may form, so hollyhock will continue to bloom for several years. Most plants will live and bloom for several years if stalks are cut off at the base after flowers have faded. They will not be as vigorous as new seedlings. Once established in the garden, hollyhock often grow voluntary from seeds dropped during the summer. These chance seedlings may and should be transplanted elsewhere in the garden.

fun fact

welcome flowers

Hollyhocks symbolize the circle of life, ambition, fertility, and abundance. They have traditionally been planted near the front door of homes to welcome prosperity. Egyptians frequently placed wreaths of hollyhocks with the mummified to help them in their journey to the afterlife.

beyond the basics

  • soil & potting

    Hollyhock will do well in almost any soil but prefers a well-drained soil. The most important factor is good air circulation, so do not crowd plants or plant too close to structures, hedges or other plants.  

  • companion planting

    Hollyhocks make excellent companions for Dahlias, Clematis, Shasta Daisies, Shrub Roses, Baby’s Breath, Black-eyed Susan, or Climbing Roses.  

  • blooms

    Hollyhocks have single or double, cup-shaped flowers with little or no stalk and bloom on tall spikes. Hollyhocks come in a wide variety of colours: blue, pink, purple, red, white, yellow and even black. 

  • pest control

    Rust is a leaf disease to which hollyhocks are especially prone. It is worse on older plants and can be kept in check by replacing plants every couple of years. 

troubleshooting

  • rusty looking leaves?

    Rust is a common problem with hollyhocks and can cause the plants to look ragged. Brown, yellow or orange spots appear as the fungus forms and grows. The damaged leaves will fall off as the disease progresses. Control fungi through proper removal and disposal of infected plants and with a general fungicide. 

  • breaking Stems?

    High winds or torrential rains can damage hollyhocks because of the sheer height of the flowers. The stalks are strong, but can be knocked around by a summer storm. A trellis positioned behind the hollyhocks gives you a place to anchor the plants. Garden twine, looped around the stalk and fastened to the trellis, keeps the hollyhocks in place when strong winds hit the garden. 

  • holes in leaves?

    Japanese beetles love the large leaves of the hollyhock plant and create unsightly holes in the foliage. The hibiscus sawfly looks like an elongated housefly with an orange spot just below the head. The larvae of these pests eat the foliage and can completely destroy the leaves on several plants in a short time. Insecticidal soaps and beetle traps generally aid in ridding the hollyhocks of the pests. 

  • broken stalks?

    Some caterpillars cause hollyhock stems to break and leaves to wilt. Close examination shows small round holes in the stems. Control stalk borers by slitting each affected stem lengthwise, removing the borers, and binding the stems together. Practice clean cultivation and burn all weeds, stems and plant remains likely to harbor over-wintering eggs. 

  • wilting leaves?

    A fungal stem canker attacks hollyhocks at bloom time on rare occasions. Stem lesions are first dark brown and later ash-gray. As these spots girdle the stem the part above wilts, collapses, breaks off and dies. Remove and destroy infected plants or plant parts as soon as you notice them. Disinfect clippers and other tools after using them on cankered plants. Space plants farther apart to minimize splash-borne infection. 

have an idea?
Beginner

hollyhocks

aka Alcea rosea

Hollyhocks can easily be started from seeds indoors, and transplanted outdoors. They add drama, colour and height to your garden. These plants are likely to attract some wildlife to your garden such as hummingbirds and butterflies! Hollyhocks can get a little “leggy” and it’s often suggested to plant dense plants in front of them to hide this. Once planted, Hollyhocks can be difficult to move. It’s suggested to plant them in a spot where you won’t have to move them.

variations

Hollyhock ‘Sunshine’, Hollyhock ‘Peaches ‘n’ Dreams, Hollyhock ‘Creme de Cassis’, Hollyhock ‘Blacknight’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Red’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Apricot’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Lavender’, Hollyhock ‘The Bride’, Hollyhock ‘O Hara’, Hollyhock ‘Banana’

light

varying needs

Full sun to partial shade

water + feeding

not too thirsty

Will tolerate moist conditions if soil is well drained. Water thoroughly during hot, dry weather. Keep water off leaves when watering, to prevent disease problems. The mistake many novice hollyhock growers make is to plant this flower in soil that’s too dry. If you are planting seeds, sow them outside about a week before last frost. If you are planting seedlings out, wait about two to three weeks after last frost. Hollyhock seeds only need to be planted right below the soil, no more than 1/4-inch (.6 cm.) deep

toxic

not really

These flowers are also non-poisonous to dogs or cats, but you need to be careful about the stems and leaves as they may have resin or fiber which may cause some skin allergies.

size

medium-ish

Hollyhock blooms are about four inch double flowers borne on wand-like stems. They have fuzzy leaves, that grow to be about 6-8″ across. A hollyhock plant can grow to be almost 6ft tall!

pro tip

blooms for years

Remove any seed-heads that may form, so hollyhock will continue to bloom for several years. Most plants will live and bloom for several years if stalks are cut off at the base after flowers have faded. They will not be as vigorous as new seedlings. Once established in the garden, hollyhock often grow voluntary from seeds dropped during the summer. These chance seedlings may and should be transplanted elsewhere in the garden.

fun fact

welcome flowers

Hollyhocks symbolize the circle of life, ambition, fertility, and abundance. They have traditionally been planted near the front door of homes to welcome prosperity. Egyptians frequently placed wreaths of hollyhocks with the mummified to help them in their journey to the afterlife.

beyond the basics

  • soil & potting

    Hollyhock will do well in almost any soil but prefers a well-drained soil. The most important factor is good air circulation, so do not crowd plants or plant too close to structures, hedges or other plants.  

  • companion planting

    Hollyhocks make excellent companions for Dahlias, Clematis, Shasta Daisies, Shrub Roses, Baby’s Breath, Black-eyed Susan, or Climbing Roses.  

  • blooms

    Hollyhocks have single or double, cup-shaped flowers with little or no stalk and bloom on tall spikes. Hollyhocks come in a wide variety of colours: blue, pink, purple, red, white, yellow and even black. 

  • pest control

    Rust is a leaf disease to which hollyhocks are especially prone. It is worse on older plants and can be kept in check by replacing plants every couple of years. 

troubleshooting

  • rusty looking leaves?

    Rust is a common problem with hollyhocks and can cause the plants to look ragged. Brown, yellow or orange spots appear as the fungus forms and grows. The damaged leaves will fall off as the disease progresses. Control fungi through proper removal and disposal of infected plants and with a general fungicide. 

  • breaking Stems?

    High winds or torrential rains can damage hollyhocks because of the sheer height of the flowers. The stalks are strong, but can be knocked around by a summer storm. A trellis positioned behind the hollyhocks gives you a place to anchor the plants. Garden twine, looped around the stalk and fastened to the trellis, keeps the hollyhocks in place when strong winds hit the garden. 

  • holes in leaves?

    Japanese beetles love the large leaves of the hollyhock plant and create unsightly holes in the foliage. The hibiscus sawfly looks like an elongated housefly with an orange spot just below the head. The larvae of these pests eat the foliage and can completely destroy the leaves on several plants in a short time. Insecticidal soaps and beetle traps generally aid in ridding the hollyhocks of the pests. 

  • broken stalks?

    Some caterpillars cause hollyhock stems to break and leaves to wilt. Close examination shows small round holes in the stems. Control stalk borers by slitting each affected stem lengthwise, removing the borers, and binding the stems together. Practice clean cultivation and burn all weeds, stems and plant remains likely to harbor over-wintering eggs. 

  • wilting leaves?

    A fungal stem canker attacks hollyhocks at bloom time on rare occasions. Stem lesions are first dark brown and later ash-gray. As these spots girdle the stem the part above wilts, collapses, breaks off and dies. Remove and destroy infected plants or plant parts as soon as you notice them. Disinfect clippers and other tools after using them on cankered plants. Space plants farther apart to minimize splash-borne infection. 

have an idea?
Beginner

hollyhocks

aka Alcea rosea

Hollyhocks can easily be started from seeds indoors, and transplanted outdoors. They add drama, colour and height to your garden. These plants are likely to attract some wildlife to your garden such as hummingbirds and butterflies! Hollyhocks can get a little “leggy” and it’s often suggested to plant dense plants in front of them to hide this. Once planted, Hollyhocks can be difficult to move. It’s suggested to plant them in a spot where you won’t have to move them.

variations

Hollyhock ‘Sunshine’, Hollyhock ‘Peaches ‘n’ Dreams, Hollyhock ‘Creme de Cassis’, Hollyhock ‘Blacknight’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Red’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Apricot’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Lavender’, Hollyhock ‘The Bride’, Hollyhock ‘O Hara’, Hollyhock ‘Banana’

light

varying needs

Full sun to partial shade

water + feeding

not too thirsty

Will tolerate moist conditions if soil is well drained. Water thoroughly during hot, dry weather. Keep water off leaves when watering, to prevent disease problems. The mistake many novice hollyhock growers make is to plant this flower in soil that’s too dry. If you are planting seeds, sow them outside about a week before last frost. If you are planting seedlings out, wait about two to three weeks after last frost. Hollyhock seeds only need to be planted right below the soil, no more than 1/4-inch (.6 cm.) deep

toxic

not really

These flowers are also non-poisonous to dogs or cats, but you need to be careful about the stems and leaves as they may have resin or fiber which may cause some skin allergies.

size

medium-ish

Hollyhock blooms are about four inch double flowers borne on wand-like stems. They have fuzzy leaves, that grow to be about 6-8″ across. A hollyhock plant can grow to be almost 6ft tall!

pro tip

blooms for years

Remove any seed-heads that may form, so hollyhock will continue to bloom for several years. Most plants will live and bloom for several years if stalks are cut off at the base after flowers have faded. They will not be as vigorous as new seedlings. Once established in the garden, hollyhock often grow voluntary from seeds dropped during the summer. These chance seedlings may and should be transplanted elsewhere in the garden.

fun fact

welcome flowers

Hollyhocks symbolize the circle of life, ambition, fertility, and abundance. They have traditionally been planted near the front door of homes to welcome prosperity. Egyptians frequently placed wreaths of hollyhocks with the mummified to help them in their journey to the afterlife.

beyond the basics

  • soil & potting

    Hollyhock will do well in almost any soil but prefers a well-drained soil. The most important factor is good air circulation, so do not crowd plants or plant too close to structures, hedges or other plants.  

  • companion planting

    Hollyhocks make excellent companions for Dahlias, Clematis, Shasta Daisies, Shrub Roses, Baby’s Breath, Black-eyed Susan, or Climbing Roses.  

  • blooms

    Hollyhocks have single or double, cup-shaped flowers with little or no stalk and bloom on tall spikes. Hollyhocks come in a wide variety of colours: blue, pink, purple, red, white, yellow and even black. 

  • pest control

    Rust is a leaf disease to which hollyhocks are especially prone. It is worse on older plants and can be kept in check by replacing plants every couple of years. 

troubleshooting

  • rusty looking leaves?

    Rust is a common problem with hollyhocks and can cause the plants to look ragged. Brown, yellow or orange spots appear as the fungus forms and grows. The damaged leaves will fall off as the disease progresses. Control fungi through proper removal and disposal of infected plants and with a general fungicide. 

  • breaking Stems?

    High winds or torrential rains can damage hollyhocks because of the sheer height of the flowers. The stalks are strong, but can be knocked around by a summer storm. A trellis positioned behind the hollyhocks gives you a place to anchor the plants. Garden twine, looped around the stalk and fastened to the trellis, keeps the hollyhocks in place when strong winds hit the garden. 

  • holes in leaves?

    Japanese beetles love the large leaves of the hollyhock plant and create unsightly holes in the foliage. The hibiscus sawfly looks like an elongated housefly with an orange spot just below the head. The larvae of these pests eat the foliage and can completely destroy the leaves on several plants in a short time. Insecticidal soaps and beetle traps generally aid in ridding the hollyhocks of the pests. 

  • broken stalks?

    Some caterpillars cause hollyhock stems to break and leaves to wilt. Close examination shows small round holes in the stems. Control stalk borers by slitting each affected stem lengthwise, removing the borers, and binding the stems together. Practice clean cultivation and burn all weeds, stems and plant remains likely to harbor over-wintering eggs. 

  • wilting leaves?

    A fungal stem canker attacks hollyhocks at bloom time on rare occasions. Stem lesions are first dark brown and later ash-gray. As these spots girdle the stem the part above wilts, collapses, breaks off and dies. Remove and destroy infected plants or plant parts as soon as you notice them. Disinfect clippers and other tools after using them on cankered plants. Space plants farther apart to minimize splash-borne infection. 

have an idea?
Beginner

hollyhocks

aka Alcea rosea

Hollyhocks can easily be started from seeds indoors, and transplanted outdoors. They add drama, colour and height to your garden. These plants are likely to attract some wildlife to your garden such as hummingbirds and butterflies! Hollyhocks can get a little “leggy” and it’s often suggested to plant dense plants in front of them to hide this. Once planted, Hollyhocks can be difficult to move. It’s suggested to plant them in a spot where you won’t have to move them.

variations

Hollyhock ‘Sunshine’, Hollyhock ‘Peaches ‘n’ Dreams, Hollyhock ‘Creme de Cassis’, Hollyhock ‘Blacknight’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Red’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Apricot’, Hollyhock ‘Halo Lavender’, Hollyhock ‘The Bride’, Hollyhock ‘O Hara’, Hollyhock ‘Banana’

light

varying needs

Full sun to partial shade

water + feeding

not too thirsty

Will tolerate moist conditions if soil is well drained. Water thoroughly during hot, dry weather. Keep water off leaves when watering, to prevent disease problems. The mistake many novice hollyhock growers make is to plant this flower in soil that’s too dry. If you are planting seeds, sow them outside about a week before last frost. If you are planting seedlings out, wait about two to three weeks after last frost. Hollyhock seeds only need to be planted right below the soil, no more than 1/4-inch (.6 cm.) deep

toxic

not really

These flowers are also non-poisonous to dogs or cats, but you need to be careful about the stems and leaves as they may have resin or fiber which may cause some skin allergies.

size

medium-ish

Hollyhock blooms are about four inch double flowers borne on wand-like stems. They have fuzzy leaves, that grow to be about 6-8″ across. A hollyhock plant can grow to be almost 6ft tall!

pro tip

blooms for years

Remove any seed-heads that may form, so hollyhock will continue to bloom for several years. Most plants will live and bloom for several years if stalks are cut off at the base after flowers have faded. They will not be as vigorous as new seedlings. Once established in the garden, hollyhock often grow voluntary from seeds dropped during the summer. These chance seedlings may and should be transplanted elsewhere in the garden.

fun fact

welcome flowers

Hollyhocks symbolize the circle of life, ambition, fertility, and abundance. They have traditionally been planted near the front door of homes to welcome prosperity. Egyptians frequently placed wreaths of hollyhocks with the mummified to help them in their journey to the afterlife.

beyond the basics

  • soil & potting

    Hollyhock will do well in almost any soil but prefers a well-drained soil. The most important factor is good air circulation, so do not crowd plants or plant too close to structures, hedges or other plants.  

  • companion planting

    Hollyhocks make excellent companions for Dahlias, Clematis, Shasta Daisies, Shrub Roses, Baby’s Breath, Black-eyed Susan, or Climbing Roses.  

  • blooms

    Hollyhocks have single or double, cup-shaped flowers with little or no stalk and bloom on tall spikes. Hollyhocks come in a wide variety of colours: blue, pink, purple, red, white, yellow and even black. 

  • pest control

    Rust is a leaf disease to which hollyhocks are especially prone. It is worse on older plants and can be kept in check by replacing plants every couple of years. 

troubleshooting

  • rusty looking leaves?

    Rust is a common problem with hollyhocks and can cause the plants to look ragged. Brown, yellow or orange spots appear as the fungus forms and grows. The damaged leaves will fall off as the disease progresses. Control fungi through proper removal and disposal of infected plants and with a general fungicide. 

  • breaking Stems?

    High winds or torrential rains can damage hollyhocks because of the sheer height of the flowers. The stalks are strong, but can be knocked around by a summer storm. A trellis positioned behind the hollyhocks gives you a place to anchor the plants. Garden twine, looped around the stalk and fastened to the trellis, keeps the hollyhocks in place when strong winds hit the garden. 

  • holes in leaves?

    Japanese beetles love the large leaves of the hollyhock plant and create unsightly holes in the foliage. The hibiscus sawfly looks like an elongated housefly with an orange spot just below the head. The larvae of these pests eat the foliage and can completely destroy the leaves on several plants in a short time. Insecticidal soaps and beetle traps generally aid in ridding the hollyhocks of the pests. 

  • broken stalks?

    Some caterpillars cause hollyhock stems to break and leaves to wilt. Close examination shows small round holes in the stems. Control stalk borers by slitting each affected stem lengthwise, removing the borers, and binding the stems together. Practice clean cultivation and burn all weeds, stems and plant remains likely to harbor over-wintering eggs. 

  • wilting leaves?

    A fungal stem canker attacks hollyhocks at bloom time on rare occasions. Stem lesions are first dark brown and later ash-gray. As these spots girdle the stem the part above wilts, collapses, breaks off and dies. Remove and destroy infected plants or plant parts as soon as you notice them. Disinfect clippers and other tools after using them on cankered plants. Space plants farther apart to minimize splash-borne infection. 

have an idea?
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