Blues Ma expounded:

Jenny wrote:

Another question from a neophyte perennial gardener.

I planted five hollyhock roots early this spring when I knew nothing about
perennials. They are in a spot that is almost full sun, but the soil they
are in is much sandier than the rest of the garden. I think some builder's
sand was dumped in that area for drainage. We didn't improve the soil at the
time we planted them, mostly out of stupidity.* They* have come up as little
bushes of leaves, not more than a foot high.* There is no sign of any flower
spikes.

Where did you get them ?
I planted six from Kelly Nurseries -* or Burgess* - and they are exactly the
same
as* you describe.** They are along a stockade fence, in very good soil.
I was hoping for the tall product that is usually planted along tall fences.
Didn't expect little bushy things.

I've never grown these before so I don't know if their small size and lack
of spikes is a sign that the soil was too poor to support them or because
they aren't supposed to flower this year.

Maybe we have the 'wait till next year' variety ?*** I am a Cubs fan as well.

Ma

Hollyhocks are mostly biennial, grow first year, flower the second.
But then mine flower for a few more years before they die off,
replaced with their own babies. Give them time, you'll be pleased!

--
Ann, Gardening in zone 6a
Just south of Boston, MA
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