Hollyhocks, or alcea, include both biennials and short-lived perennials, but….

Some varieties will bloom the first year if started from seed indoors. Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date. At a temperature of 70°-85°, seeds take 1-2 weeks to germinate. For quicker germination, soak seeds in water overnight. For flowers the second year, direct seed your hollyhocks outdoors two weeks after last frost date.