When it comes to hellebores, it is indeed recommended to prune them once they have finished flowering. This usually occurs in the later winter or early spring months, depending on your specific climate.
The first step in pruning hellebores is to wait until new growth starts to appear. This is an indication that the plant is entering its active growth phase. Once you see new shoots emerging from the base of the plant, it’s time to grab your pruners and get to work.
Start by removing the old leaves that have become tired and discolored. These leaves can be sliced off at the base using sharp, clean pruners. It’s important to make clean cuts to minimize the risk of disease or infection. Removing the old leaves not only improves the overall appearance of the plant, but it also allows more light to reach the new growth, promoting healthier and more vigorous growth.
After removing the old leaves, take a moment to assess the overall shape and size of the plant. If you notice any overcrowded or crossing branches, now is the time to thin them out. By selectively removing some of the branches, you can improve air circulation and prevent diseases from taking hold. It’s always a good idea to step back and evaluate the plant from different angles to ensure a balanced and aesthetically pleasing shape.
If your hellebore plant has become leggy or has outgrown its allotted space, you may consider a more drastic pruning approach. In this case, you can cut the entire plant back to about 6 inches from the ground. While this may seem extreme, hellebores are resilient plants and can bounce back quickly from such a severe pruning. This rejuvenation pruning can help invigorate the plant and promote fresh new growth.
Once you have finished pruning, it’s important to clean up any debris or fallen leaves around the base of the plant. This helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases and pests from overwintering in the garden. You can either discard the pruned material or add it to the compost pile, depending on your preferences and local regulations.
Pruning hellebores after they finish flowering is an important step in maintaining the health and appearance of the plant. By removing old leaves and thinning out overcrowded branches, you can promote new growth and prevent diseases. Consider a more drastic rejuvenation pruning if the plant has become leggy or overgrown. Remember to clean up debris to minimize the risk of pests and diseases. Happy pruning!