they tend to flower in their second year and I have started them in July. Not sure if this would work in your location. see if another US member can offer better advice.

I started mine at the end of July too Seaburngirl although they're only a couple of inches high so far.

It's late to start Hollyhock seeds.

if you can offer them winter protection in a greenhouse/cold frame then I'd give it a go. save some seed for starting in the spring, though they probably wont flower in their first year.

Thanks for all the great info on hollyhock seeds!

I don't know what the winters are like in Michigan US but here in Cambridgeshire UK the last few years have been mild (lows of -5) Hollyhocks are hardy and self seed all year round, I've got this years flowers starting to set seed plus im still pulling last years unwanted seedlings when I see them. And their not all bi-ennial most I had flower are repeaters from last year.

Honestly, I think the best thing is to start your seeds indoors last week in February or March & plant them outdoors in May when they are nice healthy plants. They will grow better in sync with the growing season.

You could try both suggestions, after all Hollyhocks are dropping seed now and will probably germinate in the garden if the weather keeps good.