Growing Guide

Growing Hollyhocks from seed:

• Growing hollyhocks from seed offers a cost-effective way to enjoy a plentiful and colorful garden display, as purchasing seeds is typically more economical than buying mature plants.

• Growing from seed provides gardeners with a wide range of varieties to choose from, allowing for customization in terms of color, height, and bloom size.

• Starting gomphrena from seed indoors gives gardeners a head start, maximizing the blooming period during the growing season.

• Additionally, nurturing plants from seed to maturity can be a rewarding experience, offering a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to the gardening process.

Quick Guide

Starting Indoors:

• Timing: 6-8 weeks before last spring frost

• Seed Depth: Press into surface - do not cover

• Germination time: 7-14 days

• Transplant out: After last frost

Direct Sow:

• Timing: 1-2 weeks before last spring frost

• Seed Depth: Press into surface - do not cover

• Germination time: 7-14 days

Step-by-Step Instructions - Starting Seeds Indoors

Collect Supplies:

• Seeds

• Seed starting trays or pots

• Seed starting mix (sterile)

• Labels and a marker

• Plastic wrap or a humidity dome

• Spray bottle or watering can with a fine nozzle

• Grow lights or a sunny windowsill

  Timing

  • When to Start: Begin the process about 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.

  Preparation

  • Clean Containers: Sterilize your seed starting trays or pots to prevent disease.

  • Moisten Seed Mix: Slightly moisten your seed starting mix so it's damp but not soggy.

  Planting Seeds

  • Fill Trays: Fill each cell in the seed tray with the moist seed starting mix.

  • Sow Seeds: Place 1-2 seeds in each cell.

  • Label Trays: Label each tray or pot with the type of zinnia and the planting date.

  Germination

  • Cover Seeds: Press seeds into soil surface to ensure contact with soil. Do not cover seeds with soil. Light is needed for germination. Optionally, add a thin layer of vermiculite to prevent algae growth on soil surface.

  • Moisten Surface: Use a spray bottle to mist the top of the soil.

  • Create Humidity: Cover the seed trays with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to maintain moisture.

  • Warmth: Place the trays in a warm location (70-75°F or 21-24°C). A heat mat can help.

  Light and Watering

  • Lighting: Once the seeds germinate (about 10-14 days), remove the cover and place the seedlings under grow lights or in a sunny windowsill. Provide 12-16 hours of light per day.

  • Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water from the bottom if possible to prevent damping-off disease.

  Transplanting Outdoors

  • Timing: Transplant the seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

  • Conditioning Transplants: Over the course of a week, slowly transition tender seedlings outdoors by gradually exposing them to the elements.

  • Soil Preparation: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Amend with compost if needed.

  • Planting: Plant seedlings 18-36 inches apart, depending on the variety.

  • Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.