Germination

• Hollyhocks need light to germinate in the spring. Start heirloom hollyhock seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date for your area. Broadcast the seeds across the planting area and scatter a layer of soil over the seeds.
  
  

Hybrids

• Newer seed varieties require a planting depth of 1/4 inch for the hollyhocks. Plant these seeds directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed.
  
  

Reseeding

• Hollyhocks reseed themselves every year. If you allow the seed pods to ripen and scatter, the seeds will affix themselves into the soil and germinate in the spring. To keep hollyhocks from spreading, collect the seed pods, allow them to dry and store the seeds in an airtight container. Plant in the spring at a depth of less than 1/4 inch.