Josie Lewis: Hellebores for reliable winter colour - Episode 259

From their resistance to deep snow and hard frosts, to long-flowering habits, hellebores are quietly spectacular plants that earn their keep in pots, borders and shady corners.
This week we’re diving into one of the true stars of the winter garden, focusing on the new varieties that bring a renewed perspective on one of the winter garden’s most generous providers, and how to keep them looking their best in the garden or in a vase.
In this episode, discover:
• How to choose hellebore varieties for pots, borders and different garden conditions, from shade to full sun with Corsican types
• The best new and classic hellebores for long winter colour, including Maestro, Merlin, Strawberry Moon, Bijou and the Pretty Ellen series
• How to cut, condition and arrange hellebores so they stand proud in a vase for two weeks
• Practical ways to prevent and deal with pests and diseases like aphids, mice damage, leaf miner and black spot
• Tips on soil, compost, potting and feeding so hellebores thrive as long-lived, reliable perennials
Products mentioned:
Helleborus niger
sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-niger
Helleborus argutifolius
sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-argutifolius
Helleborus x ballardiae 'Merlin'
sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-x-ballardia…
Helleborus x 'Bijoux'
sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-bijoux
Helleborus x 'Guess'
sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-guess
Helleborus orientalis 'Pretty Ellen Red'
sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-pretty-elle…
Helleborus orientalis 'Pretty Ellen Spotted'
sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-orientalis-…
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