Malva moschata (Musk Mallow)

Seed Treatment: • Cold stratification is recommended: Place seeds in moist paper towel or sand and refrigerate at 35–40°F (1–4°C) for 2–4 weeks • Scarify seeds gently with sandpaper or soak in warm water for 12–24 hours before sowing. When to Sow: • Indoors: Start 4–6 weeks before the last frost after stratification • Outdoors: Direct sow in fall (for natural stratification) or early spring Sowing Instructions: • Sow seeds ¼ inch (6 mm) deep in moist, well-draining soil • Ideal soil temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C) • Germinates in 10–21 days Light Requirements: • Thrives in full sun • Tolerates partial shade, but flowers best with more light Soil Requirements: • Prefers well-draining soil, but adapts to a wide range of soil types • Tolerates poor to moderately fertile soils • pH range: 6.0–7.5 Watering: • Water regularly during germination and early growth • Once established, it is drought-tolerant and prefers light watering Spacing: • Thin or transplant seedlings to 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart Growing Tips: • Produces hibiscus-like blooms from early to late summer • Great for pollinator gardens, wildflower meadows, and cottage gardens • Attracts bees and butterflies • Can self-seed if spent flowers are not removed • Grows as a short-lived perennial in USDA Zones 4–8, and often self-renews annually