Hellebores grow best on heavy (even clay), slightly alkaline soil in a north or east facing aspect.
Suitable for under planting around shrubs such as Witch Hazel in dappled shade.
Dig in organic matter at planting time.
Sorry to be a pain but I always thought witch hazel preferred a slightly acid to neutral soil ? they will tolerate a heavy or clay soil with the addition of organic matter as you said, as long as drainage is 😊 it's a lovely picture 🌸
Your right, Hellebores prefer neutral or slightly limy soils; a pH about 7 seems ideal. If you have an acid soil, use mushroom compost at planting time and an annual top dress of garden lime when mulching.
You have just solved my problem - why my newly planted Hellebores are so slow to make progress. We have acid soil. Must get them some mushroom compost. Many thanks
Hellebores grow best on heavy (even clay), slightly alkaline soil in a north or east facing aspect. Suitable for under planting around shrubs such as Witch Hazel in dappled shade. Dig in organic matter at planting time.
Sorry to be a pain but I always thought witch hazel preferred a slightly acid to neutral soil ? they will tolerate a heavy or clay soil with the addition of organic matter as you said, as long as drainage is 😊 it's a lovely picture 🌸
Your right, Hellebores prefer neutral or slightly limy soils; a pH about 7 seems ideal. If you have an acid soil, use mushroom compost at planting time and an annual top dress of garden lime when mulching.
You have just solved my problem - why my newly planted Hellebores are so slow to make progress. We have acid soil. Must get them some mushroom compost. Many thanks
Does this apply to all types as I have some in a planter with a Camellia and a skimmia in ericaceous compost and they are doing really well...🤔
#hellebore-advice
Fortunately, all types of soil can grow good Hellebores except waterlogged.