We sometimes report on the setbacks and successes of our green thumb crime reporter Stacey Mullick.

Yesterday, we told about her lupine pest problem. Today, we tell you about her hollyhock dilemma. Here is what Stacey has to say about her hollyhocks:

Can this Hollyhock be saved?

Two years ago, I planted Hollyhock seeds. I started them inside, then transferred them outside once I had some established leaves.

They didn’t do much last summer but wintered through well and reemerged this season. I was pretty pleased that they (and the Sweet Williams I also started from seed last year) came back. All the Sweet Williams had a spectacular season this summer.

As the three Hollyhocks grew taller, I noticed something amiss. Their leaves were dotted with brown spots and dying off. It sort of looks like some type of rust. The stalks have continued to grow and two of the three are blooming decently.

But I am wondering whether the Hollyhocks will return next year and, if they do, what can I do to prevent this problem. Can they be saved? Or should I just pull them out and the end of the season and try something new?

Comment here if you have a thought, or e-mail your solutions to gardenphotos@thenewstribune.com.