Water

Follow the 'keep it moist but not soggy' rule! Until it's established, water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not wet. This helps its extensive root system get firmly anchored. Check the soil by poking your finger an inch or two down. If it feels dry, give it a good, deep drink. Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant in shady areas and will only need an occasional watering during extended, blistering dry spells. Always make sure it is planted in well-draining soil. Hellebores hate sitting in stagnant, pooled water, which can lead to root rot.

Fertilizer

The best fertilizer is a simple, 2-to-3-inch layer of rich organic compost or aged manure spread around the base of the plant every spring or fall. This mimics the forest floor and provides all the slow-release nutrients it needs naturally. If you prefer store-bought options, apply a well-balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 formula) once a year in early spring right as the new growth starts pushing up.

Pruning

Pruning is not strictly required for the plant to survive, but it is highly recommended once a year to keep it healthy and looking its absolute best. In late winter or very early spring, just as you see the round, new flower buds starting to push up from the soil, cut away the old, large leaves from the previous year right down to the base of the plant. By late winter, these old leaves usually look tattered, flattened, or brown from winter frost.