To add to the beauty of your garden, fertilizing your Hollyhock plants will help to promote their vigor and increase their flowering. Hollyhocks are considered heavy feeders and although soil composition and conditions vary from garden to garden, nutrient density is a must. In this guide, we will take a closer look at how to fertilize Hollyhock plants and their specific fertilization needs throughout their growing cycle.
How important is fertilizing Hollyhocks?
When it comes to hibiscus plants, fertilizer plays an essential role in the overall health of the plant. Regular fertilization aids in flower and leaf production, as well as other necessary processes. Although hibiscus plants can be grown in less than ideal conditions, they often grow poorly and are likely to start showing signs of nutrient deficiencies early in the season. These signs include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and even increased susceptibility to disease.
What is the best food for Hollyhocks?
The specific needs of hibiscus plants can vary depending on species, season, or even location. A solid understanding of the plant’s growth cycle will help gardeners meet the necessary soil conditions. Testing the soil before planting can provide valuable insight into fertility and/or recommended amendments.
A balanced, slow-release fertilizer is generally considered one of the best fertilizers for mallow plants. This is especially true during the first active growing season, when the plant produces lots of healthy leaves. As the plant transitions to flowering in late spring and early summer, mallow fertilizer needs may change, focusing on flowering.
When to Fertilize Hollyhock Plants
Proper fertilizer for mallow plants should be applied at the right time. Begin at planting time by mixing well-rotted compost and other fertilizers into the garden bed. As a two-year mallow plant, the first season benefits from regular fertilizing as it produces strong stems, large leaves and a strong root system.
Hollyhocks that bloom in their second growing season will also benefit from fertilizer. Fertilizing in early spring helps promote growth and flowering. At this time, Hollyhock gardeners use liquid fertilizer and/or other fast-acting fertilizers that are higher in phosphorus.
How Often to Fertilize Hollyhocks
Organic or chemical fertilizers designed specifically for use on ornamental plants can be applied every few weeks during the summer or according to the manufacturer’s label instructions. As the weather cools later in the season, you can reduce the frequency of fertilizing. This will help prepare the plant for winter. Begin fertilizing again the following spring as soon as the plant begins to grow again.
The Best Way to Fertilize Hollyhocks
Hollyhocks can be fertilized in a number of ways. The most common is “side dressing” and the use of liquid fertilizers. Side dressing is the process of applying fertilizer around the perimeter of the plant near its drip line. Liquid fertilizers, such as compost tea, are often used as a foliar spray or soil drench. As with any fertilizer, be careful not to burn or damage the plant. Be careful not to over-fertilize. Common signs of over-fertilization include leaves suddenly turning yellow and wilting.
frequently asked Questions
How to keep Hollyhocks blooming all summer?
Growers hoping to extend the flowering period of hollyhocks have found the most success through deadheading. After flowering, deadheading can be removed from the plant. Deadheading a hollyhock will often stimulate new growth, promoting more buds in late summer, provided conditions are ideal.
Do Hollyhocks Like Coffee Grounds?
There is little evidence to support the use of coffee grounds specifically for mallow plants. While composted coffee grounds do add a small amount of nitrogen to the soil, they do not significantly affect or change the overall pH of the garden bed.
