How long do the hollyhock plants bloom?
Typically, they won't bloom until their second year if newly planted (though some may surprise you) but when they do, the plant will continue to produce buds and flowers throughout the growing season, normally June-August.
Do you know of an easy organic way to keep rust from forming on hollyhock leaves?
The following articles should be of some help to you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/learn-about-plant-rust-disease-and-rust-treatment.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hollyhock/tips-on-hollyhocks-growing-hollyhocks-successfully.htm
My Hollyhocks have rust on the bottom leaves. Do I need to cut these leaves or just put some fungus treatment on them?
Here is an article that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/learn-about-plant-rust-disease-and-rust-treatment.htm
They are in rich, moist soil and morning sun till about noon.
There are several things that could cause this. If you have had extreme temperature fluctuations (colder or hotter), the stress from the extreme temps may be to blame. The plant may also have a pest or a fungus (rust most likely). I would recommend treating the tree with neem oil, as it will take care of both pests and fungus. Here is more info: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/learn-about-plant-rust-disease-and-rust-treatment.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm
I was told I could just cut my Hollyhocks down in the fall and lay them where I want them to grow next year. Is this true?
It would probably be easier to cut the (dried) seed heads and sprinkle them where you want to grow your hollyhock plants. This would ensure that the seed gets into the ground, while simply laying the entire plant down may not.
Flower - https://www.box.com/s/0e3c10764baef94c7113 Leaf and Buds - https://www.box.com/s/f1fa621b5aacc362a969
Most leaves of the hollyhocks have leaf miners, but have not affected the flowers. Flowers are fading quickly now, and wondering when I need to cut the plant back and mulch. When do I cut the hollyhocks back? I think I want to grow a million of these!!
Neem oil, which is both an organic insecticide and fungicide, sprayed on the plants is also recommended for most problems. Here is more information:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/leaf-miner-control.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm
You can cut them back during your fall cleanup, or now, if the flowers have finished for the season.