Can Hollyhocks be Grown in Pots?
Hollyhocks are a common sight in gardens, and if you’re looking to add a little of the traditional cottage charm to your own outdoor space, growing some of these colourful blooms is a great way to do it. But can hollyhocks be grown in pots? The answer is yes – although some slight adjustments to your planting method may be necessary.
Choosing a Pot
Before planting your hollyhocks, it’s essential to pick a large enough pot. As the plant can grow up to 10 feet tall, the pot you use will need to be deep and wide enough to accommodate them – an 18-24 inch pot is usually best. Be sure to pick a pot with proper drainage holes and use a good quality potting soil.
Planting and Maintenance
After you’ve planted your hollyhocks it’s important to give them some time to establish themselves in the pot before you move them outside. When it comes to watering, try and maintain a consistent approach, as they don’t do well if they’re allowed to dry out between waterings. They usually require a good amount of sun throughout the day, but if temperatures reach above 90F, be sure to provide them a little shade.
Specific Care Tips
To ensure your hollyhocks thrive when growing in pots there are a few specific care tips to follow:
- Keep an eye on pests: Insects and other pests can be particularly problematic when growing hollyhocks indoors. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestations and act quickly if you do spot any.
- Provide nutrients: As you would when growing hollyhocks in the ground, you also need to provide timely fertilization when growing them in pots. A good quality, balanced plant fertilizer should be plenty to keep them healthy.
- Maintain the pot: Keeping your pots properly maintained is also essential. As hollyhocks are deep-rooted, they require more water and the pot can start to break down over time. To prevent this, it’s important to refresh the pot once in a while.
In conclusion, while hollyhocks can certainly be grown in pots, it’s vital that you follow these few care tips for the best results. With patience and dedication, you can create a stunning pot of these romantic blooms. Enjoy!
