Dorothy Taul and Linda Lamp presented a program on lantana, passion fruit and hollyhocks when the Grand River Garden Club met July 21 at the Galt Café.

Hollyhocks are classic cottage garden flowers known for their tall, dramatic spikes of colorful blooms. The short-lived perennials require six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day to produce strong stems and maximum blooms.

Hollyhocks prefer rich, moist and well-drained soil, reports gardening experts. They can tolerate poor soil, but do not grow well in soggy conditions. Planting them near a fence, wall or other structure can help protect the tall flower spikes from strong winds.

The plants should be watered deeply at their base once or twice a week. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring, or the soil can be top-dressed with compost to encourage healthy growth. Taller varieties may need to be tied to stakes for support. Cutting spent flower spikes down to the base may encourage a second round of blooms, says experts.

Lantana also requires full sun, with at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant prefers loose, well-drained soil but can tolerate poor soil conditions. It grows best in slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.

Lantana grows as a hardy perennial in warm climates in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 8 through 11. Gardeners in colder climates typically grow it as an annual. Containers and hanging baskets should have adequate drainage holes. Because nutrients can quickly wash out of potting soil, container-grown lantana should be fed monthly during the summer with a gentle, half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer.

Taul also reported that the Thompson House group is working on fall planting selections. She also invited members to “Tea Time” from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Sept. 4 at the Thompson House.

The club’s next meeting will be held at noon Aug. 17 at China One.