Here are three key points in planning your pollination garden. To attract U.S. native bumblebees: First, add both early(*), mid-summer, and late(**) flowers in the mix for a three seasons long garden. Second, mass together many of the same kinds of flowers, not just one or two plants, so that bees will spot them easier and to visit the planting frequently. […]
Archive for the ‘Hollyhock (Alcea)’ Category
Hollyhock Rust Prevention Tips
Posted by Hugh on July 19th, 2012
Hollyhocks (Alcea rosea) are old-fashioned perennials (and biennials) which are currently finding a new audience. There are numerous cultivars differing in plant height from 5 to 9 feet and spread of 1 to 3 feet. Flowers come in single and double forms and in many color shades. Hollyhocks are hardy to USDA hardiness zone 4. […]
Hibiscus Sawfly Devastates Plant Foliage
Posted by Hugh on August 3rd, 2011
The hibiscus (mallow) sawfly is a devastating pest of hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos) and hollyhock (Alcea rosea). The adult sawflies are small, barely a quarter inch long. They are mostly black, except for a yellowish brown spot on their thorax, and their smoky wings. The pale green larvae mature to 1/2 inch in length. The larvae […]