HOW TO GROW HELLEBORUS

Growing Helleborus – An Early Season Gem

Helleborus, or Lenten Rose, are one of the most reliable perennial groups around. These evergreen plants bring an architectural quality to the shady garden. Most bloom in early winter in mild climates and in late winter or very early spring where the ground freezes hard. they are long-lived and provide exquisite blooms at a time when flowers are a scarce delight. They are also dividable which means you can spread them throughout your garden over time.Best of all, deer do not eat them! What more could you ask for.

How To Grow Helleborus

Light/Watering

Hellebores are at their best in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade.
Water well during extended dry periods; they are drought-tolerant once established.

Fertilizer/Soil and pH

Hellebores like rich soil. They do be when a lot of organic matter is mixed into the soil.
Plants will benefit from a light application of granular, balanced fertilizer in early spring.

Pests/Diseases

Watch for slug or snail damage. These can be controlled withbaits or diatomaceous earth.

Pruning

Although evergreen, the foliage often looks tattered in early spring. Prune back dead and disfigured foliage before new growth appears.
Remove old flower stems when they decline, cutting back to the base of the plant.

End-of-Season Care

Do not prune back now; wait until early spring and then prune off tattered and dry looking leaves.
An extra layer of mulch will protect the plants through the winter.

Here are some favorite Hellebrous to grow:

Helleborus niger ‘Potters Wheel’– Christmas Rose