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get the most out of your crop with these growing guidelines

this long-blooming, versatile and hardy plant to their production mix. The trick to growing a successful, profi table crop

A

growing hellebores

number one key to success: plant early enough to allow plants to establish before the weather warms

• Plant liners level with the soil, making sure not to bury the crown. This will increase branching, resulting in more fl ower stems.

• Avoid planting in soils with a high nitrogen starter charge or during periods of high temperature.

• Provide light shade and soil rich in organic matter. • Ideal temperatures are 60° to 75° F during the day and 45° to 55° F at night.

• Monitor root development and fertility levels early in production to avoid excess salts and root problems.

• Drench with a broad-spectrum fungicide directly after planting to prevent problems down the road. Drench again as needed in hot weather.

8

WINTER BLOOMS

• To encourage root development and control height, apply a well-balanced fertilizer. During the growing season and when plants are established, a fertilizer higher in nitrogen is recommended.

• Provide ample growing space. Adjacent plants should not cover the crowns.

• Protect foliage from severe weather to avoid winter burn.

• For specimen quality, remove one-third of the oldest, largest leaves prior to fall growth.

• Keep roots moist — not wet. Do not allow to wilt. • Monitor for thrips and aphids, which can sometimes pose a problem.

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begins with selecting the soil and ends with shielding from the elements. Although traditionally slow grow- ing, the end product is worth a little TLC. Once established, these winter-blooming beauties

require little care and provide color and cheer through- out the holiday season and beyond.

s Hellebores enjoy a rebirth as more than just a ground cover, more perennial and pot crop growers have responded to heightened consumer interest by adding Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8
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