Product Features: Variety: Summer Carnival Mix Hollyhock Quantity: 30+ seeds Type: Herbaceous Perennial Growth: Thrives in full sun, best in zones 3-9 Maturity: Blooms in mid to late summer Planting Depth: 1/4 inch Free Shipping: Enjoy free shipping on all orders! Benefits: Vibrant Blooms: A mix of beautiful colors including pink, red, yellow, and white Tall and Majestic: Grows up to 6-8 feet tall, perfect for backdrops and garden borders Low Maintenance: Drought-tolerant and easy to grow once established Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds Detailed Planting Guide: Preparation: Soil: Choose well-drained, fertile soil. Hollyhocks prefer a slightly alkaline to neutral pH (6.0-8.0). Location: Pick a sunny spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Planting: Timing: Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date or directly outdoors in early spring or fall. Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep. Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart. Watering: Frequency: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period. Once established, hollyhocks are drought-tolerant. Method: Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the foliage. Fertilizing: Initial: Mix a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the soil before planting. Ongoing: Apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season. Care: Mulching: Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Weeding: Keep the area around the plants weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and water. Staking: Provide support for tall plants by staking if necessary. Pest and Disease Management: Common Pests: Watch for aphids, slugs, and hollyhock weevils. Use organic pesticides or introduce beneficial insects to control them. Diseases: Prevent rust and powdery mildew by ensuring good air circulation around the plants and avoiding overhead watering. Harvesting: Timing: Harvest seeds from the flower spikes once the pods have dried and turned brown. Method: Carefully collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place for future planting.