Do you have some suggestions on how hollyhocks can be grown in the San Joaquin Valley, California?
This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hollyhock/tips-on-hollyhocks-growing-hollyhocks-successfully.htm
I have a friend who has many hollyhocks in her yard. She has offered me when some of the plants stop flowering (go to seed) that I may dig some of them up and take the roots. If I do this, when should I plant them and how would I best care or prepare the roots?
The best time to transplant is in the spring, but if your neighbor needs to clear them out, you can do it now. Take as much soil as you can, transplant quickly and water well. You may find the following article helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hollyhock/tips-on-hollyhocks-growing-hollyhocks-successfully.htm
I planted some hollyhocks last year but they turned yellow after they got about a foot high and I thought they all died. This year one came back, but it's starting to do the same thing. Help!!!
Hollyhocks are prone to powdery mildew and other fungus. Treat them with a fungicide. This should help prevent the yellowing on the leaves.
As a precaution, I would also check watering for the plants. If they are not getting enough water, this can also cause yellowing.
What is the best time to plant hollyhocks? Also, do you cut down lilies in the fall?
Here is an article that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hollyhock/tips-on-hollyhocks-growing-hollyhocks-successfully.htm
As for the lilies, do not cut the plants. Allow the leaves to die down naturally so they will have enough energy for next year's blooms.
I'm not sure what "rust" is with hollyhocks.
Rust will typically attack the lower leaves but it may spread to more upper leaves. Here is more information on rust: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/learn-about-plant-rust-disease-and-rust-treatment.htm
I've been 'trying' for over ten years to grow hollyhocks with no success. I've tried planting the plants and also spreading seeds - lots of seeds. I haven't ever even gotten a bloom, much less getting them to grow. Our soil is very rich. PLEASE help.
Thank you for sending us your question. The following article(s) should be of some help to you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hollyhock/tips-on-hollyhocks-growing-hollyhocks-successfully.htm
How do hollyhocks do as a cut flower?
"A Garden for Cutting" by Margaret Parke states: "Certain plants require an extra step. The cut stems of poppies, hollyhocks, hibiscus, and oleander, for instance, ooze a milky or yellowish latex. If the ends of the stems are untreated, this sap will coagulate and clog the stem's water-conducting tubes. To prevent this, make a few slits in the stem end and sear it for about half a minute over a candle or gas flame, or dip it into a few inches of boiling water for about a minute. Take care to apply heat only briefly lest too many of the water conducting cells be damaged in the process. Finish conditioning in a deep, water-filled container."
Cut hollyhocks when the bottom third of the florets have opened. Once the stem is cut, more florets will open; the entire stem should last ten days."