Classic English cottage garden plants, hollyhocks (Alcea spp.) add architectural height to borders and bloom for months on end. Most are grown as biennials due to their susceptibility to rust or fungal diseases.

In the nursery, we prevent rust on our potted plants by bottom watering and providing excellent air circulation. Humidity + poor air circulation creates the perfect conditions for fungal diseases to develop.

To grow hollyhocks without rust follow a few simple tips:

1. Air circulation: do not overcrowd your plants.

2. Soil: hollyhocks like rich, evenly moist soil. Compost is key.

3. Water: never use sprinklers on hollyhocks.

4. Weeds: remove weeds like Wild Mallow from your garden. Other mallow family plants can harbor and spread fungal diseases.