HELLEBORE TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Problem
Likely Causes
Solutions
• Winter temps too warm • Clear poly allowing excess light • High fall fertility • Frost exposure below 32°F • Inadequate fall cooling • Low fall fertility • pH above 6.0 • Low iron • Overwatering / poor drainage
• Maintain 32–45°F • Use white poly • Reduce late-fall fertilizer
FLOWERING TOO EARLY
• Keep frost-free • Ensure 40–50°F in fall • Boost N + Fe, maintain EC 1.2–1.5
FLOWERING DELAYED
• Correct pH to 5.5 • Apply Fe chelate • Improve drainage
PALE / YELLOW FOLIAGE
• Low fertility • Heat stress over 80°F • Warm root zone
• Maintain constant feed • Provide 30–35% shade • Keep pots tight & filled to rim
STALLED GROWTH
• Late planting • Low fall fertility • Liners planted too shallow • Midday watering • Poor drainage • Stress from low fertility • Direct sun on pots • Clear poly in winter • Midday watering • Spaced too late • Low light in fall/winter • Warm winter temps
• Plant earlier in spring or switch to fall • Increase N + Fe in fall • Plant liners slightly deeper
LOW BUD COUNT
• Water AM/PM • Improve aeration • Maintain steady feed • Keep pots tight • Use white poly • Avoid midday irrigation
ROOT DISEASE
LEAF BURN
• Space just before flowers open • Follow shade guidelines • Maintain 32–45°F in winter
WEAK / STRETCHY PLANTS
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