Cultivation methods and precautions of Hellebore

How to grow Hellebore

temperature

Hellebore prefers warmth and is relatively cold-resistant, and can tolerate temperatures as low as -10 degrees in winter. But it should avoid dryness and coldness. It grows well in moist and cool places in winter, and the best temperature for overwintering is 4 to 10 degrees. It is not resistant to high temperatures. During high temperatures in summer, measures such as shading, spraying water on the leaves, and increasing ventilation should be taken to lower the temperature.

illumination

Hellebore prefers semi-shady environment and avoids exposure to sunlight. Shade is needed in summer to prevent the plants from being burned by the scorching sun. Sufficient light should be maintained in early spring to facilitate flower bud differentiation. If there is no shade in summer, the stems and leaves will be burned and dry.

Watering

Hellebore is not drought-tolerant, so the soil in the pot should be kept moist during its growth period. In the summer when it is not suitable for growth, watering needs to be properly controlled. Water when the soil is dry and do not let the soil in the pot be too dry.

Fertilization

Fertilize hellebore once every half month during the growing season. Top dressing can be done 3 times a year.

soil

Hellebore likes moist, fertile and well-drained soil, especially sandy loam, and avoids poor drainage. Neutral or slightly alkaline soil is best. If the soil is heavy, it needs to be mixed with sawdust, humus organic fertilizer and peat soil before planting. It can be planted in the field or in pots in late spring or autumn, but is usually planted in autumn.

Things to note when growing Hellebore

Pest control

Hellebore is often attacked by diseases and pests such as wilt, crown rot, black spot, aphids, and slugs. In autumn and early winter, remove old and diseased leaves from the plant to prevent black spot disease in spring.

Reproduction method

Hellebore can be propagated by sowing and division. The method of division is relatively easy. The disadvantage of sowing propagation is that some species cannot completely inherit the characteristics of their parents, and the germination rate of some seeds is not high.