HOW TO BE SUCCESSFUL WITH HELLEBORES

IN THE GARDEN

Hellebores prefer deep soil, moist but not waterlogged; they also do very well in clay. Improve light soils with garden compost and leaf mould.

They thrive in a cool, semi-shaded position provided by a house or garden wall, or when shaded by shrubs and small trees.

Remove all the old foliage around Christmas time – the leaves can look tatty beyond a certain point and any black spot may be passed on to new foliage – but you can leave a few healthy leaves to frame the flowers.

IN POTS

Hellebores develop an extensive root system, and require a large pot to allow for growth as well as space for any additional plants you might want to put with them – ivy, grasses or spring bulbs, for instance.

Plant the hellebores in a gritty soil-based compost and mulch with gravel. Move pots into prime position close to the house when they’re in flower.

Don’t neglect them once they’ve finished flowering. If you tuck them away, remember that they’ll need regular water and liquid feed through the summer if they’re to continue to thrive.

Consider positioning – stand your potted hellebores in dappled shade when they’re not on display.