Mallow: Sowing, planting and harvest calendar
How do you sow common mallow under cover?
Start common mallow under cover in spring, working backwards from a suitable planting time in your garden. March sowing followed by May planting suits some climates, but those months are not compulsory. Check that your seed is Malva sylvestris, since several other plants also share the name mallow.
Use clean pots or module trays filled with free-draining seed compost. Heavy garden soil can compact easily in a small container. Sow thinly, cover the seeds lightly and water gently to avoid moving them. Moderate warmth, around 18°C, is suitable for raising this sowing. Keep the compost slightly moist and place the containers somewhere bright.
Watch for emergence and ventilate the shelter when conditions allow. Once true leaves appear, provide enough space between seedlings, transplanting them carefully if necessary. Gradually harden them off before planting outside. Wait for well-rooted young plants and favourable conditions rather than imposing one size or date. Plant in a sunny position with free-draining soil and water while they establish. Young root balls still need regular moisture, even though established plants can tolerate drier conditions.
When and how do you plant common mallow?
When does common mallow flower and how do you follow its blooms?
