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Creating beautiful garden borders can transform your outdoor space into a vibrant and inviting area. Hollyhocks are a classic choice for adding height and color, especially when combined with carefully selected companion plants. This guide will walk you through the steps to design stunning borders using hollyhocks and their plant companions.
Choosing the Right Location
Hollyhocks thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Select a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and has good drainage to support healthy growth.
Preparing the Soil
Before planting, prepare the soil by mixing in compost or aged manure. This will provide essential nutrients and improve soil structure. If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it accordingly to create a balanced environment for hollyhocks and companion plants.
Planting Hollyhocks
Hollyhocks can be grown from seeds or transplants. Sow seeds directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed, or start seedlings indoors 6-8 weeks earlier. Space plants about 3-4 feet apart to accommodate their tall growth and prevent overcrowding.
Plant the hollyhocks at the same depth they were in their containers. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Selecting Companion Plants
Choose plants that complement hollyhocks in height, color, and bloom time. Good companions include:
- Lavender: Adds fragrance and attracts pollinators.
- Salvia: Provides contrasting colors and attracts bees.
- Daylilies: Bloom alongside hollyhocks in summer.
- Coreopsis: Offers bright yellow flowers and drought tolerance.
- Sweet Alyssum: Fills in gaps with delicate white blooms.
Designing the Border
Arrange taller hollyhocks towards the back of the border to create a striking backdrop. Place shorter companion plants in front to add layers and visual interest. Consider repeating plant groupings for a cohesive look and ensure continuous blooms by selecting plants with overlapping flowering periods.
Caring for Your Hollyhock Border
Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and reduce weeds. Support tall hollyhocks with stakes if necessary to prevent wind damage. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and monitor for pests like rust or aphids.
Enjoying Your Garden
With proper planning and care, your hollyhock border will become a focal point in your garden. The combination of towering flowers and lush companion plants creates a dynamic and colorful landscape that attracts pollinators and delights visitors throughout the growing season.