About Us

(Pictured: Eastern spinebill in a Japanese flowering quince hedge at Hollyhock Hill.)

Ballarat is our home, and gardening is our heritage

Our family began farming and market gardening in the district all the way back in 1856, and every generation since has continued the tradition in one way or another. Seed savers for many years, we more recently decided to offer a small selection at the local farmers’ market. That defining moment only confirmed what we already knew: Ballarat’s cottage gardening tradition is still alive and well!

Our seeds are packaged right here in Ballarat. The traditional design of our unique paper packets features artwork by Sasha Freeman. Within, small resealable bags help protect the seeds from moisture. Larger seeds are counted by hand and finer seeds are weighed on precision scales to ensure that you will always receive more than you paid for.

Our seeds are proven to germinate. Germination rates in most varieties are between 73-95% at time of testing. If you experience any difficulty, simply let us know, and we'll be happy to help.

We’re serious about sustainability and biodiversity. Open-pollinated seeds are perfect for sustainable gardening, as you can save seeds from your own harvest the following season. Many of our open pollinated varieties are grown right here in our cottage garden, while others are sourced from our Australian suppliers. As a natural result of open pollination, some plants may exhibit slight variations. This is proof of their genetic diversity.

Sustainable gardening starts with a seed! We invite you to explore our curated collection of over 100 heirloom and open-pollinated varieties and enjoy the satisfaction of adding a little bit of biodiversity and beauty to your life!

Meet us at the market

Plants, seeds, and garden tools are available at the Ballarat Farmers Market (held on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month) and the Creswick Market (held on the 3rd Saturday of the month). Open from 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m., the Hollyhock Hill stand showcases a range of heirloom and open-pollinated flower, vegetable, and herb seeds, as well as potted perennials and top-quality gardening tools. And in spring, a wide range of tomato varieties and other vegetable plants are potted and ready for you to put in the ground.

Ballarat Farmers’ Market

The Ballarat Farmers’ Market is in Zoo Drive, off Wendouree Parade, at the North Gardens Reserve. They have hot coffee, food vans, local fruit and vegetables, baked goods, sweets, desserts, jam, beverages, vinegar, olive oil, meat, cheese, spices, grain, eggs, honey, and loads of specialty stalls selling homewares, country crafts, jewellery, local art, clothing, plants, seeds, bulbs, and lots more!

Creswick Market

The Creswick Market is a much-loved monthly event, with the true relaxed feel of a regional community market. Located in the picturesque and historic township of Creswick, just 20 minutes from either Ballarat or Daylesford. With live music and specialist boutique sites offering gourmet take away food, coffee, handmade arts and crafts, jewellery, clothes, home grown fruit, vegetables, plants and other produce.

Click here or send an email to sales@hollyhockhill.com.au to find out when and where Hollyhock Hill's next market stall will be.

Wishing you very happy gardening!

Jock and Sasha Freeman