Hollyhock, “The Watchman” Seeds

Alcea rosea

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Heirloom.

From a distance, the dark color of The Watchman is as black as the moonless night sky, but on closer inspection you can see its rich, purplish burgundy cast. Seductive towers of flowers for bees and butterflies make an excellent backdrop for pink, red, yellow, or white flowers. Fairly drought tolerant but performs best with ample moisture. Hollyhock flowers are edible, but very bland; however, the large, colorful petals are lovely garnishing salads or desserts. (The flower’s central disk, while edible, can be bitter.)

400 mg packet contains ~29 seeds

Plant Vitals

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When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date, or 2 months before your average first fall frost date.

When to Start Inside: 6 to 8 weeks before your average last frost date. Roots are sensitive to disturbance; sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted in the ground.

Days to Emerge: 10–14 days

Seed Depth: Press into surface

Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 24"–36"

Thinning: When 3" tall, thin to 1 every 24"–36"

Harvesting: For longest-lasting cut flowers, harvest when 1/3 of the flowers on the stem have opened. Harvest in the morning; cut stem at an angle and immediately place in a bucket of warm water. Before placing in a vase, dip the stem end in boiling water for a minute, or sear it over a flame for 20 seconds; this will stop the flow of the milky sap so it does not clog the stem.