Hellebore care guide

Pets and children

How often to water Hellebore

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 5 days

In spring water thoroughly once the topsoil dries, as a guide; in summer it half-rests and wet soil damages the roots, so wait a few days after drying and water in the evening.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 5 days

Growth resumes in fall; about every four or five days once the surface dries is the guide.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every 7 days

It flowers in winter but the soil dries slowly, so as a guide water two or three days after it dries, on a mild morning.

Light and placement for Hellebore

Sun from fall to spring and cool partial shade in summer is the guide, like the ground under a deciduous tree; move pots to an east side or bright shade in summer, since midsummer sun scorches the leaves.

Overwintering Hellebore

Overwintering guide: −10°C (14°F) or above

Cold-hardy: it generally overwinters outdoors and blooms through frost and snow, with pots moved under the eaves only in a prolonged hard freeze; a warm room weakens it.

Fertilizing and repotting Hellebore

Fertilizer

During the October to April growing season, place slow-release fertilizer in October and after bloom and add dilute liquid feed about twice a month; none from May to September.

When to repot

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Common problems with Hellebore

• Overwatered in a sunny spot in summer, the roots rot.
• Grown in a warm room it weakens and stops flowering.
• Left unrepotted for years it becomes root-bound and flowers less.

Tips for growing Hellebore

• Cutting the old leaves when buds appear in November or December shows the flowers and reduces disease.
• If you do not want seed, cut the flower stems after bloom to save the plant's strength.
• Repot in October or November into a slightly larger, deeper pot.

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