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Hollyhocks are tall, beautiful perennial plants that add vertical interest and color to gardens. Dividing hollyhocks in spring is a vital gardening task that helps maintain plant health, encourages vigorous growth, and prevents overcrowding. Proper division ensures your hollyhocks will thrive year after year.
Why Divide Hollyhocks in Spring?
Dividing hollyhocks in spring offers several benefits:
- Promotes healthier, more vigorous plants
- Prevents disease and pest problems
- Encourages bushier growth
- Rejuvenates old, overgrown plants
When Is the Best Time to Divide Hollyhocks?
The ideal time to divide hollyhocks is early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. This timing allows the plants to establish roots before the heat of summer and provides enough time for the divided sections to develop strong roots.
Signs That Hollyhocks Need Dividing
Look for these signs indicating it’s time to divide:
- Plants have become overcrowded and are flopping over
- Flowering has decreased or become sparse
- Old stems are woody and less productive
- Plants are showing signs of disease or pest issues
Steps to Divide Hollyhocks in Spring
Follow these steps for successful division:
1. Prepare Your Tools and Materials
Gather a garden spade, sharp knife or garden shears, compost, and mulch. Wear gloves to protect your hands from rough stems and potential irritants.
2. Water the Plant
Water the hollyhock thoroughly the day before dividing. Moist soil makes it easier to dig and reduces stress on the plant.
3. Dig Up the Plant
Carefully dig around the base of the hollyhock, loosening the soil with your spade. Gently lift the entire root ball from the ground, being careful not to damage the roots.
4. Divide the Root Clump
Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the root ball into sections. Each section should have healthy roots and at least one vigorous growth point or shoot.
5. Replant the Divisions
Plant each division at the same depth as it was growing before. Space them about 18-24 inches apart to allow for growth. Fill in with soil and press firmly to eliminate air pockets.
6. Water and Mulch
Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Aftercare Tips
Proper aftercare encourages healthy growth:
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
- Feed with a balanced fertilizer after a few weeks
- Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage
- Monitor for pests and diseases, removing affected parts promptly
Conclusion
Dividing hollyhocks in spring is a rewarding gardening practice that revitalizes your plants and enhances your garden’s beauty. With proper timing, tools, and techniques, you can ensure your hollyhocks remain healthy and vibrant for many seasons to come.