From This To This - Hollyhocks

I have loved Hollyhocks for a long time. And, here are a couple that I planted last year. They were looking so healthy a couple months ago in April. They had not had the attack of the dreaded Japanese Beetle which are one of the most voracious eating insects with many host plants. And, those beetles work fast. When I first noticed in the beginning of June the little puncture holes in my beautiful big green leaves I could clearly see four adult beetles. Fortunately, I had some organic neem-based pesticide handy and that helped tremendously to eliminate the "visitors".

They grew nicely and looked like they were soon to bloom.

And, looking healthy with good looking leaves at the top and minus all those little holes.

And, look at us now!   Tall and blooming.  See, the stars I added at the tips of the stalks so you can see what I am showing you?

I like the grouping of flowers including the Daylilies, Dusty Miller, Garua (which the bubble bees really love) Hollyhocks and the Rose on the right, nearby.      I just learned that another common name for Garua is - - - Beeblossom.  Makes sense, to me.

These are a Double White Hollyhock named ICICLE.

Quite Lovely - - - - - - I think!     Bright sunshine makes photo taking a little challenging!

Cooler temperatures are predicted for today at 103 degrees!

Happy Weekend.

Mary