Photo: Stan Shebs, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Hollyhock: when and how to prune
Alcea rosea
Hollyhock is best pruned in September–October.
| Pruning months | September–October |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–September |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Hollyhock: when to prune it?
In September–October, after flowering.
Hollyhock: how to prune it?
- Cut faded stems back to 10–15 cm above the rosette: the plant often lives a year longer as a result.
- Leave a few stems until the seed is ripe and brown, so the plant can self-seed or you can harvest seed.
- Clear up leaves with rust, so less of the fungus overwinters.
- Lay the cut stems in a bundle in a quiet corner: small insects can overwinter in them.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: September–October.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Caution: If you want it to self-seed, do not cut all the stems before the seed is ripe.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.